Google Negotiates with the Pentagon on an AI Deal to Deploy 'Gemini' in Classified Environments
April 17, 20261049 ViewsRead Time: 2 Minutes
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Media reports have revealed that Google, a subsidiary of Alphabet, is negotiating with the Pentagon to establish an agreement allowing the use of its artificial intelligence models 'Gemini' within classified environments.
According to 'The Information', the discussions focus on enabling the U.S. Department of Defense to deploy AI tools in 'legitimate uses' within the framework of advanced technology partnerships.
Proposed Restrictions to Prevent Uncontrolled Military Use
Among the proposed measures, Google aims to include contractual clauses that prevent the use of its technologies in:
mass surveillance within the United States
the development of autonomous weapons without human oversight
These clauses reflect the company's attempt to balance expanding its government business while mitigating the ethical risks associated with the use of AI.
The Pentagon Strengthens Its AI Partnerships Without Confirming the Deal
A Pentagon official confirmed that the department continues to develop its capabilities in the field of artificial intelligence through extensive industrial partnerships, without confirming the existence of a final agreement with Google as of yet.
This move comes as part of a broader U.S. initiative to integrate artificial intelligence into military and administrative operations, aiming to reduce costs and accelerate performance.
Shifts in Tech Companies' Policies Towards Military Cooperation
Coinciding with these developments, OpenAI had modified its cooperation terms with the U.S. Department of Defense last March, following criticisms regarding the potential use of AI in surveillance.
CEO Sam Altman confirmed that the new amendments prevent the company's technologies from being used in comprehensive surveillance, emphasizing the priority of protecting civil rights.
Google's Backtracking on Previous Commitments Sparks Controversy
It is noteworthy that Google had revised its AI principles in 2025, backtracking on a previous commitment not to use these technologies in applications that could cause public harm, such as developing weapons or surveillance tools.
Nevertheless, the company affirmed its commitment to international law and human rights, indicating that it seeks to achieve a balance between technological innovation and risk reduction.
Government Contract Race Sparks Divisions Within Google
The company's management, led by Sundar Pichai, aims to expand cooperation with the federal government, which has led to internal controversy and objections from some employees.
It is noted that Google withdrew in 2018 from a massive $10 billion military project with the Pentagon due to concerns about its alignment with its ethical principles at the time.
