The Department of Defense is broadening its deployment of Alphabet Inc.'s (NASDAQ:GOOG) (NASDAQ:GOOGL) Google Gemini artificial intelligence model for classified national security projects as it diversifies military AI partnerships following Anthropic's exclusion from defense contracts.
Pentagon Expands Google Gemini For Classified Military
Pentagon AI chief Cameron Stanley confirmed to CNBC on Tuesday that the DOD is increasing its use of Google's Gemini AI model for sensitive and classified applications.
The department is also working with OpenAI and other providers to strengthen wartime capabilities.
"Overreliance on one vendor is never a good thing," Stanley told the publication. "We're seeing that, especially in software."
According to reports, Gemini is being used for classified programs tied to logistics, cybersecurity, infrastructure protection and military modernization.
Stanley said these tools are already delivering major efficiency gains, saving "literally thousands of man-hours on a weekly basis."
Anthropic Remains Barred From DOD Contracts Amid Legal Dispute
The Pentagon's deeper relationship with Google comes roughly two months after the agency dropped Anthropic as a contractor over supply chain concerns.
While Anthropic continues fighting the federal government in court, conflicting judicial rulings have left the company unable to secure Defense Department work, though it can still partner with other agencies during ongoing litigation.
A DOD spokesperson confirmed to the publication that the department is not currently working with Anthropic.
Google Faces Internal Pushback Over Classified AI Work
Previously, it was reported that Google's expanding defense role has sparked resistance within its own workforce.
More than 700 employees reportedly signed a letter to CEO Sundar Pichai urging the company to reject classified military contracts, citing fears the technology could be used "in inhumane or extremely harmful ways."
Alphabet did not immediately respond to Benzinga’s request for comments.
Alphabet is scheduled to announce its first-quarter 2026 earnings results after the market closes on Wednesday.
Price Action: Alphabet shares closed lower on Tuesday, with Class A stock falling 0.16% to $349.78 and Class C stock slipping 0.29% to $347.50, while both edged slightly higher in after-hours trading, according to Benzinga Pro.
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Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
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