Pentagon’s chief technical officer Emil Michael has criticised Anthropic for placing restrictions on how its AI chatbot Claude can be used in defence systems. Speaking on the “All-In” podcast recently, Michael said the military needs technology partners willing to support autonomous defence capabilities. The comments come after the United States Department of Defense designated Anthropic a supply chain risk. During the podcast appearance, Emil Michael said the military requires dependable technology partners for future defence projects.
He said the Pentagon is looking for partners that will support autonomous capabilities used in military systems. According to Michael, restrictions placed on AI systems could make it harder for the military to deploy new technologies.
“I need a reliable, steady partner that gives me something that’ll work with me on autonomous,” he said, adding “I need someone who’s not going to wig out in the middle.”
AI expected to play role in future warfare: Pentagon tech chief
Emil Michael said the U. S. military is increasingly exploring AI-powered technologies in several areas.
These include autonomous drone swarms, underwater vehicles and automated defence systems. The Pentagon believes such systems could become important as other countries invest heavily in military AI capabilities.
Michael also pointed to potential AI applications in the Golden Dome missile defence program, an initiative backed by Donald Trump aimed at building space-based defence systems against advanced missile threats.
In a scenario involving a hypersonic missile attack, he said the U.S. could have less than 90 seconds to respond. In such cases, automated systems may need to assist with rapid decision-making.
Tech companies continue support for Anthropic
Meanwhile, major technology firms including Amazon, Microsoft and Google said they will continue providing Anthropic’s AI technology to customers.
However, the companies said their services will exclude projects connected to defence-related uses.
The disagreement reflects a broader debate over how artificial intelligence should be used in military systems and the role technology companies should play in defence development.
