OpenAI’s robotics chief has stepped down after raising concerns about how the company’s AI could be used by the US military. The resignation comes just days after the company confirmed a deal with the Pentagon to deploy its AI systems within defence infrastructure, a move that has already sparked debate around surveillance and oversight. The development is notable because it involves a senior leader who was closely involved with OpenAI’s robotics and hardware ambitions.
Caitlin Kalinowski, who headed robotics and consumer hardware at OpenAI, announced on Saturday that she is resigning from the company. She shared the decision in a post on X, where she linked her departure to concerns about OpenAI’s recent agreement with the United States Department of Defense.
The deal allows the Pentagon to use OpenAI’s AI models on its classified cloud networks. The partnership was confirmed last week as part of the defence department’s efforts to explore how artificial intelligence tools could assist with various operations.
OpenAI robotics chief quits, says AI deals involving surveillance need stronger oversight
Kalinowski said she believes artificial intelligence can play an important role in national security. However, she raised concerns about how such systems might be used if adequate oversight is not in place.
“AI has an important role in national security. But surveillance of Americans without judicial oversight and lethal autonomy without human authorization are lines that deserved more deliberation than they got.”
She described her decision to leave as one based on principle. At the same time, Kalinowski emphasised that her concerns were not directed at individuals within the company. In her post, she said she continues to have respect for OpenAI chief executive Sam Altman and the broader team, and added that she remains proud of the robotics work completed during her time there.
Kalinowski also suggested that the Pentagon agreement was announced too quickly and without enough time to fully define safeguards around how the technology might be used. In a follow-up post, she said the issue was largely about governance and decision-making.
“It’s a governance concern first and foremost. These are too important for deals or announcements to be rushed.”
OpenAI has defended the partnership, saying the agreement includes safeguards around how its AI models can be used. The company has said its policies prohibit applications such as domestic surveillance and fully autonomous weapons.
“We recognise that people have strong views about these issues and we will continue to engage in discussion with employees, government, civil society and communities around the world.”
Kalinowski joined OpenAI in 2024 after previously working at Meta Platforms, where she led development related to augmented-reality hardware. At OpenAI, she was responsible for leading the company’s robotics and consumer hardware work.
