Fact-check: The claim is widely supported by real-time X discussions, including posts about Anthropic's CEO memo criticizing OpenAI's Pentagon deal as 'safety theater' and details of Anthropic losing the contract over safety concerns while OpenAI stepped in (e.g., posts from March 4, 2026). Multiple reliable sources like NYT, Forbes, CNN, and NPR confirm the events, with the exact NYT podcast title matching and reports from late February 2026. This aligns with the 'AI Defense Contracts Pentagon' situation context.
At the Pentagon, OpenAI is In and Anthropic Is Out
OpenAI and Anthropic, two leading artificial intelligence companies, are experiencing shifting fortunes in their relationships with the US Department of Defense. Reports indicate OpenAI is gaining traction with Pentagon contracts while Anthropic is losing ground, reflecting broader competition among AI firms for lucrative and strategically significant government defense partnerships. The developments come amid rapid changes in the AI industry landscape.