Pentagon Partners with OpenAI to Transform Military AI Amid Executive Shifts

The U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) has secured a pilot project contract with artificial intelligence company OpenAI, valued at $200 million. The collaboration aims to develop "advanced AI" capabilities though the exact scope of the work remains undisclosed. Announced on Monday in the DoD's new contract listings, the initiative begins with OpenAI receiving an immediate payment of $2 million, with further disbursements to follow.

According to the DoD's statement, the contract focuses on the creation of prototype AI capabilities designed to tackle critical challenges in national security. These include both combat-related and organizational needs. OpenAI's blog mentions that the agreement will explore how advanced AI technology can enhance the administrative functions and services of the Department of Defense. Other expected outcomes include improvements in access to medical services for military personnel and enhancing cybersecurity defenses.

Interestingly, OpenAI’s blog deliberately avoids using the term "war," instead ensuring that applications align with OpenAI’s policies and guidelines. These stipulations clearly prohibit the use of OpenAI technology in "the development or employment of weapons." Previously, OpenAI had an outright ban on military and war-related applications, but this stance was nuanced in January, now simply asking users not to use its services in ways harmful to themselves or others. It remains uncertain whether these conditions are applicable to governmental clients, as clarity from OpenAI has been sought.

The contract with the DoD coincides with recent military appointments of OpenAI's key executives. Kevin Weil, Chief Product Officer, and former Chief Revenue Officer Bob McGrew have both been named as Lieutenant Colonels in the U.S. Army Reserve. They join a cohort including CTOs from Palantir and Meta, all members of the newly formed 201st Battalion — tasked with providing AI consultancy to the Pentagon.

Previously, OpenAI collaborated with defense contractor Anduril, founded by Oculus creator Palmer Luckey. Furthermore, Meta has recently embarked on a new military partnership with Anduril to develop augmented reality tech for soldiers, filling the void left by similar abandoned Microsoft projects.