Google Signs Pentagon AI Deal Despite Employee Backlash

Google has signed a contract with the Pentagon to provide artificial intelligence services, according to company officials. The deal proceeds despite public criticism and internal protests from employees who object to working on military applications.

The agreement covers the use of Google's cloud computing and AI tools for defense purposes. Specific financial terms and the scope of services have not been disclosed by either party.

Hundreds of Google employees had signed a letter urging the company to cancel the contract, citing ethical concerns about AI in warfare. The company stated it will implement safeguards to ensure the technology is used responsibly.

This marks Google's latest move into government contracting, following earlier controversies over Project Maven, a Pentagon drone imagery analysis program that sparked employee resignations in 2018.