Meta Opens Its AI Models to US Defense Agencies and Contractors
Meta has granted approval for US government agencies and defense contractors to use its AI models, opening the door for Meta’s technology to play a key role in military and national security efforts. The Facebook-parent company is making its large language models, called Llama, available to more than a dozen US agencies and contractors, including Lockheed Martin Corp., Booz Allen Hamilton Holding Corp., and Palantir Technologies Inc.
Access to Meta's AI Models
While Meta’s AI models are open source, meaning they are free for developers to use, the company’s “acceptable use policy” forbids people from using them on any projects related to “military, warfare, nuclear industries or applications, [and] espionage,” among other things. But Meta is making an exception for US defense agencies and their contractors as it works to expand its reach in the public sector and increase Llama’s foothold in the burgeoning AI arms race.
Global Expansion
“As an American company, and one that owes its success in no small part to the entrepreneurial spirit and democratic values the United States upholds, Meta wants to play its part to support the safety, security and economic prosperity of America - and of its closest allies too,” wrote Nick Clegg, Meta’s president of global affairs, in a blog post.
Use Cases in Defense and Security
The move by Meta comes on the eve of the US election and at a time when concerns about the potential use of AI for military applications are rising. Large language models like Llama can be used for tasks such as data analysis, synthesizing documents, tracking terrorist financing, and strengthening cyber defenses.
Ethical Use of AI in National Security
Meta will not have a direct say in how US agencies or its partners use the Llama technology. However, a Meta spokesperson emphasized the importance of deploying AI ethically, responsibly, and in accordance with relevant international law, especially in the realm of national security.
Strategic Partnership with US Defense Agencies
Meta's motivation to collaborate with US defense agencies stems from its goal to establish Llama as a leading foundation for AI products globally. CEO Mark Zuckerberg's decision to make Llama open source is part of a strategy to have more control over the next wave of technology and ensure the widespread adoption of Meta's technology.
Preventing Adversarial Influence
Meta's decision to work with US defense agencies is also seen as a strategic move to prevent adversaries, such as China, from gaining dominance in AI technologies. The company believes that promoting American open source models over those from other countries is crucial for the interests of both the US and the broader democratic world.
