Amazon(US:AMZN) Forbes·2026-02-27 23:40Core Viewpoint - The U.S. Department of Defense has designated Anthropic as a supply chain risk to national security after the company declined to provide unrestricted access to its AI models, leading to a potential loss of a $200 million government contract [1][7]. Group 1: Government Actions and Statements - Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth emphasized the need for the Department of Defense to have full access to Anthropic's AI models, stating that no contractor working with the military should engage in commercial activities with the company [2]. - President Trump accused Anthropic of attempting to manipulate the government and stated that the U.S. military would not allow a "radical left, woke company" to dictate military operations [2][6]. - The Pentagon has denied intentions to use Anthropic's technology for mass surveillance or autonomous weapons, claiming that the company is misrepresenting the situation [6]. Group 2: Anthropic's Position - Anthropic rejected the Pentagon's request for unrestricted access to its AI models, citing ethical concerns regarding the use of its technology for mass surveillance and fully autonomous weapons [3]. - The company indicated it would facilitate a transition to another provider if the Department of Defense decided to terminate its contract [3]. Group 3: Impact on Other Companies - Palantir, which has significant government contracts, will need to sever ties with Anthropic to maintain its relationship with the Defense Department, as it utilizes Anthropic's AI models [5]. - Lockheed Martin has been asked by the Department of Defense to evaluate its reliance on Anthropic, while Amazon Web Services may also be affected due to its involvement in training Anthropic's AI models [5]. Group 4: Industry Support and Reactions - A petition supporting Anthropic has been signed by 266 Google and 65 OpenAI employees, advocating for the company's stance against the use of its models for mass surveillance and autonomous weaponry [8].