OpenAI’s new partnership with Anduril marks a significant shift in the company’s stance on military use of its technology. In less than a year, OpenAI’s rules for using its models were relaxed, allowing collaboration with the Pentagon on cybersecurity and disaster relief efforts. Today, the company is announcing that it will deploy AI on the battlefield to help US and allied forces defend against drone attacks.
The partnership aims to build AI models that can rapidly synthesize time-sensitive data, reduce human operator burden, and improve situational awareness. The technology will be used specifically to defend personnel and facilities from unmanned aerial threats. OpenAI’s policies have been criticized for not providing clear guidance on the use of its technology in military contexts.
However, experts argue that this shift is necessary to ensure that democratic countries dominate the AI race. OpenAI has emphasized flexibility and compliance with the law, while venturing into a new territory where tech companies like Amazon, Google, and Microsoft have already made significant forays.
The company’s pivot raises questions about civilian harm, as contributing AI models to defense programs may not be entirely clear-cut. Moreover, working in defense means that tech companies like OpenAI will no longer have control over how their products are used.
Despite these concerns, the partnership with Anduril represents a significant step forward for OpenAI in leveraging its technology for national security purposes. As the company continues to explore new revenue streams and navigate the complex landscape of AI regulation, it is essential to examine the implications of this partnership on the future of AI development and deployment.
Source: https://www.technologyreview.com/2024/12/04/1107897/openais-new-defense-contract-completes-its-military-pivot