Pentagon memo orders removal of Anthropic AI from military systems

The Defense Department ordered military leaders to remove Anthropic's AI products from Department systems within 180 days after designating the company a supply chain risk; Anthropic has filed lawsuits challenging the action.

The Pentagon has notified senior military leaders that Anthropic's AI products must be removed from Department systems within 180 days, according to an internal memorandum. The memo was dated March 6 and signed by Defense Department Chief Information Officer Kristen Davies after the department formally designated Anthropic as a supply chain risk. Anthropic has filed two lawsuits against the federal government challenging the designation and the removal order. Known details: - Removal timeline: The memorandum requires Anthropic products be removed from Department systems and stops their use on Pentagon-related contracts within 180 days. - Supply chain designation: The memo states Anthropic presents an unacceptable supply chain risk and warns of possible exploitation concerns for Department operations. - Exception process: The document says only the CIO can grant exemptions for mission-critical activities and that any request must include a comprehensive risk mitigation plan. - Legal action: Anthropic filed two lawsuits alleging the designation and related steps were unlawful; those legal challenges are pending. Summary: The memorandum directs a 180-day removal of Anthropic products from Department systems and limits their use on Pentagon contracts, while setting a narrow exemption process. Anthropic has responded with legal challenges to the designation and order. Undetermined at this time.