Pentagon Tests Rival AI Models in Race to Replace Anthropic

The Pentagon is testing AI models from OpenAI, Google, and xAI's Grok to replace Anthropic's Claude after Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth labeled Anthropic a supply-chain risk. Starting March 1, 2026, the DoD began evaluating alternatives with 25 power users on a platform separate from the Maven Smart System. DoD CIO Kirsten Davies signed an internal memo ordering Claude removed within 180 days from nuclear, missile defense, and cyber warfare systems. Emil Michael, Undersecretary of Defense for R&E, confirmed talks with Anthropic remain suspended. Anthropic is challenging the designation in court, citing billions in potential revenue losses.