OpenAI is Collaborating with Defense Technology Startup Anduril

AI model developer OpenAI, which formerly referred to its goal as “saving the world,” announced on Wednesday that it is partnering with military contractor Anduril.

Anduril’s counter-drone systems—which identify and eliminate drones—will incorporate OpenAI’s software as part of the collaboration. This is OpenAI’s first collaboration with a defense contractor and a dramatic shift from the company’s previous position in the military. 

Formerly prohibiting “military and warfare” use of its technology, OpenAI changed its terms of service in January to eliminate the ban after softening its stance on military usage earlier this year.

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In a statement, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman stated, “OpenAI develops AI to help as many people as possible and supports U.S.-led efforts to ensure the technology upholds democratic values. Our collaboration with Anduril will help guarantee that OpenAI technology safeguards U.S. military personnel and will assist the national security community in comprehending and utilizing this technology responsibly to ensure the safety and freedom of our citizens.”

Anduril, which is presently valued at $14 billion, has a $200 million deal with the Marine Corps for counter-drone equipment, according to the Wall Street Journal. However, OpenAI will gain political clout in addition to financial gain from its relationship with Anduril. 

Palmer Luckey, a co-founder of Anduril, was an early backer of Donald Trump, the president-elect, and has connections to Elon Musk, one of the leaders of the Department of Government Efficiency, which is currently unclear and nonexistent. Additionally, the right-wing think tank America First Policy Institute, which is closely collaborating with the Trump transition team, has suggested that Trump adopt AI to establish a new defense “Manhattan Project.”

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