Pentagon demands full AI access from Anthropic by February 27

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has issued an ultimatum to Anthropic, demanding that the company lift restrictions on the use of its AI model by the evening of February 27, Axios reports citing sources.

The Pentagon chief warned that if Anthropic refuses, the department could invoke the Defense Production Act of 1950, which allows federal authorities to directly intervene in the allocation of private companies’ products.

As an alternative pressure measure, officials are also considering a complete suspension of cooperation with the developer. Hegseth reportedly conveyed these terms to Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei during a February 24 meeting.

Anthropic said it is prepared to adjust its product-use policies for military needs. However, the company continues to oppose the use of its technology for mass surveillance of U.S. citizens.

Another red line for Anthropic is the ban on using AI in autonomous weapons — systems capable of opening fire without direct human authorization.

The Defense Department, for its part, is seeking the right to use the technology for all lawful purposes, including combat operations and intelligence gathering.