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In 2025, the Pentagon used AI Anthropic including the Claude model for covert operations, including strikes in Iran. A year later, in March 2026, the Trump administration threatens to ban the company “security risk”. Why could this conflict also shake the cryptoecosystem?
In short
- In 2025, Antropic will sign a $200 million deal with the Pentagon to provide its AI, used in covert operations, including strikes in Iran.
- In 2026, the Pentagon demands full access to AI models, while Anthropic refuses, fearing misuse or mass surveillance.
- Without an agreement with the Pentagon, Anthropic faces a military contract ban, a precedent that could extend the restrictions to other critical technologies.
AI: The floor between Anthropic and the Pentagon is intensifying
In July 2025, Anthropic signed a $200 million contract with the US Department of Defense to provide artificial intelligence models, including Claude AI, used in classified environments. These tools have been deployed in support of military operations, including airstrikes in Iran. That was before the Trump administration ordered a halt to their use.
In March 2026, the Pentagon and Anthropic disagreed on the terms of access to the AI models. Indeed, Secretary of War Pete Hegseth accused the company of arrogance and treachery when he said it refused unrestricted access to technology for “internal security reasons”.
Anthropic, through its CEO Dario Amodei, responded that these restrictions are necessary to prevent the misuse of AI or mass surveillance. A clause the Pentagon wants removed. Negotiations stalled over a key phrase in the treaty that the Pentagon deemed too restrictive:
“mass data analysis”
Military AI and Crypto: 3 Reasons Why This Conflict Could Be About You
The conflict between Anthropic and the Pentagon shows how regulation focused on artificial intelligence could extend to other technology sectors, including blockchain. Here’s why:
- Technological interdependence: Projects like Fetch.ai or SingularityNET combine AI and blockchain. If AI is subject to restrictions, these projects could be hampered by audits or bans! Especially if they work with government officials.
- Regulatory precedents: The SEC has already targeted crypto platforms (Binance, Coinbase) for non-compliance. A similar tightening of AI could extend control to blockchain tools using advanced algorithms.
- Volatility of AI-related assets: Tokens from projects like Ocean Protocol or Numerai could face selling pressure if their technologies are associated with geopolitical risks. On the contrary, decentralized solutions (DAO, IPFS) could benefit from the influx of users trying to circumvent these restrictions.
The conflict between Anthropic and the Pentagon proves that AI and crypto are no longer neutral technologies, but major geopolitical stakes. Which side will prevail between regulation and innovation? And you, would you be ready to move your assets to more resilient ecosystems?
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The world is evolving and adaptation is the best weapon to survive in this wavy universe. Originally a manager of the crypto community, I am interested in anything directly or indirectly related to blockchain and its derivatives. In order to share my experiences and promote a field that I am passionate about, there is nothing better than writing informative and relaxed articles.
DISCLAIMER OF LIABILITY
The views, thoughts and opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author and should not be taken as investment advice. Before making any investment decision, do your own research.
