Pentagon inks AI deals with seven tech firms for classified use

The Pentagon said on May 3, 2026 that it has reached deals with seven tech companies to use their artificial intelligence in its classified computer networks, enabling the military to access AI-powered capabilities to aid warfighter decision-making in complex environments. Google, Microsoft, Amazon Web Services, Nvidia, OpenAI, Reflection and SpaceX will provide resources to support augmented decision-making, according to the Defense Department.

The report notes that Anthropic was notably absent after its public dispute with the Trump administration, and that OpenAI had previously announced a deal in March to effectively replace Anthropic with its ChatGPT in classified environments. One agreement reportedly includes language requiring human oversight in certain autonomous or semiautonomous missions, and another stresses that AI tools be used in ways consistent with constitutional rights and civil liberties.

The Pentagon said that military personnel are already using AI capabilities through its GenAI[.]mil platform, with officials emphasising that multiple providers help avoid over-reliance and broaden access to an American AI ecosystem.