OpenAI Secures Defense Deal for Classified AI Use

[ed]

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman announced that the company has reached an agreement allowing the United States Department of Defense — referred to by the Trump administration as the Department of War — to deploy OpenAI’s models within classified government networks. The deal follows tense negotiations between the Pentagon and rival AI firm Anthropic, which had pushed back against granting unrestricted use of its models for “all lawful purposes.”

Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei previously argued that while the company does not oppose specific military operations, certain AI applications — including mass domestic surveillance and fully autonomous weapons — could undermine democratic values. After talks reportedly broke down, President Donald Trump criticized Anthropic publicly and directed federal agencies to phase out its tools. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth went further, labeling the firm a supply-chain risk and restricting military contractors from commercial engagement with the company.

[mendez]

openai really unlocked the classified network expansion pack