OpenAI Joins Defense Technology Company Anduril.
Sam Altman stated that this action will benefit the greatest number of people possible.
OpenAI, known for its initial focus on saving the world through artificial intelligence, has announced a collaboration with Anduril, a military contractor. This partnership involves the integration of OpenAI's software into Anduril's drone countermeasure systems, which are designed to detect and neutralize drones. This marks the first time OpenAI has collaborated with a defense contractor, representing a significant shift from its previous stance on the military use of its technology.
Historically, OpenAI had prohibited the use of its technology for military and warfare purposes in its terms of service, but earlier this year, it modified these restrictions, lifting the ban in January. Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, emphasized that their goal is to build artificial intelligence that benefits as many people as possible and to support U.S.-led efforts to ensure that this technology respects democratic values. According to Altman, this collaboration with Anduril will ensure the protection of U.S. military personnel and help the national security community understand and use the technology responsibly to keep citizens safe and free.
Additionally, Anduril, currently valued at $14 billion, has a $200 million contract for drone countermeasure systems with the Marine Corps. The partnership not only provides financial benefits to OpenAI but may also enhance its political influence. Palmer Luckey, co-founder of Anduril, was an early supporter of former President Donald Trump and has connections with Elon Musk, who is associated with the uncertain and yet non-existent Office of Government Efficiency. Similarly, the America First Policy Institute, a right-leaning think tank closely working with Trump’s transition team, has suggested that the former president adopt artificial intelligence to create a new "Manhattan Project" for defense.
