The Pentagon, however, has maintained that existing federal law already restricts mass surveillance of U.S. citizens and that internal military policies already limit fully autonomous combat weapons.
Defense officials argue that written contractual restrictions are unnecessary because operational safeguards already exist inside the military command structure.
The dispute intensified after federal authorities set a deadline for negotiations. When agreement was not reached, the administration directed federal agencies to discontinue use of Anthropic technology.
The decision followed a declaration that Anthropic would be considered a potential national security supply chain risk, restricting military contractors from continuing commercial engagement with the company.
Military technology officials stated that government users should rely on alternative AI platforms considered more aligned with defense requirements.
Emil Michael, the Pentagon’s chief technology officer, said the military had attempted compromise. “At some level, you have to trust your military to do the right thing,” he said, adding that security planning must also account for strategic competition in global AI development.
