OpenAI is discussing a contract to deploy its AI technologies on NATO’s unclassified networks without access to classified information, Reuters and the Wall Street Journal report, citing sources. Talks began shortly after a deal with the Pentagon, under which the company’s technology would be rolled out within the US Department of Defence’s secure network. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman mentioned the possibility of operating in special NATO networks at a closed-door meeting, but a spokesperson clarified that the discussions concern only unclassified systems.
The Pentagon deal was reached after Trump’s administration terminated cooperation with Anthropic over disagreements: the company refused to provide AI for mass domestic surveillance and autonomous weapons without human oversight. Negotiations broke down, and the US government cancelled $200 million in contracts.
OpenAI has confirmed its systems will not be used for domestic surveillance of US citizens or for intelligence work like that of the NSA. All in all, the company is expanding partnerships with NATO and US defense agencies, imposing ethical limits on military uses of its AI.
