Google has agreed to allow the U.S. Department of Defense to use its artificial intelligence technology on classified networks, effectively opening the door to virtually all lawful uses. This move makes Google the second major AI company, after OpenAI, to enter into a broad AI partnership with the Pentagon.

The deal comes in the wake of Anthropic’s public refusal of the Trump administration’s demands. Anthropic had declined to grant the Department of Defense unrestricted terms, insisting on guardrails to prevent its AI from being used for domestic mass surveillance and autonomous weapons systems. In response to this refusal, the Pentagon designated Anthropic as a “supply-chain risk” — a label typically reserved for foreign adversaries. Anthropic and the DoD are now embroiled in litigation, with a judge last month granting Anthropic an injunction against the designation while the case proceeds.

Google stepped into this breach. According to The Wall Street Journal, Google’s agreement includes language stating it does not intend for its AI to be used for domestic mass surveillance or autonomous weapons — similar to contract provisions with OpenAI. However, it remains unclear whether these provisions are legally binding or enforceable.

Notably, Google’s decision has faced strong internal opposition. Some 950 Google employees have signed an open letter urging the company to follow Anthropic’s lead and not sell AI to the Defense Department without comparable guardrails. Google has not responded to requests for comment on the matter.

This episode highlights a deepening rift in the AI industry over military applications: on one side, tech giants racing to secure lucrative defense contracts; on the other, AI researchers and employees increasingly concerned about their technology being weaponized. As Anthropic’s legal battle with the Pentagon continues, this controversy is expected to intensify in the coming months.

Source: TechCrunch