OpenAI is getting more entrenched in its relationship with the US government, announcing that it will provide access to its cutting-edge AI models for approximately 15,000 scientists across several US National Laboratories.
This collaboration, announced on Thursday, will see researchers from Los Alamos, Lawrence Livermore, and Sandia National Labs using OpenAI’s technology to aid in diverse projects ranging from cybersecurity to medical advancements and nuclear safety.
In partnership with Microsoft, OpenAI will deploy its o1 model—or a variant—on the Los Alamos National Laboratory’s newly launched Venado supercomputer, powered by NVIDIA’s Grace Hopper architecture.
The collaboration will support a variety of initiatives, including efforts to protect the national power grid from cyberattacks, discover new treatments for diseases, and delve into the fundamental laws of physics.
AI to support nuclear weapons safety and security.
Perhaps the most contentious part of the collaboration involves the use of OpenAI’s models to assist in nuclear weapons safety. OpenAI stated that its technology would support work to reduce the risks associated with nuclear war and secure nuclear materials and weapons worldwide.
The company emphasized that this partnership aspect is crucial to its commitment to national security. However, it also stressed that AI researchers with a security clearance would conduct careful and selective reviews to ensure the safety of its applications in these sensitive areas.
OpenAI’s involvement with nuclear weapons research has raised eyebrows, given the historically cautious stance surrounding the use of advanced technologies in military and security contexts. However, the company’s partnership with the National Laboratories seems to be in line with its broader focus on enhancing the safety and security of critical infrastructure.
Broadening AI’s role across government sectors
OpenAI’s move comes just days after the company introduced a version of ChatGPT designed specifically for US government use. Since 2024, government workers across 3,500 agencies have used the chatbot for various tasks, including scientific research and administrative functions.
For example, the Los Alamos National Laboratory has already been using ChatGPT to explore how AI can safely advance scientific research, including potential breakthroughs in healthcare.
OpenAI’s expanding role in government projects highlights its increasing influence in both the private and public sectors, especially as its AI tools become integral to research and development in critical fields.
The partnership with SoftBank to build AI infrastructure across the US and Sam Altman’s personal contributions to President Trump’s inauguration show OpenAI’s continued efforts to align itself with key political stakeholders.
As OpenAI’s involvement in national security and critical infrastructure grows, it raises important questions about the ethical implications of AI in sensitive areas like nuclear weapons and government surveillance.
While OpenAI insists that it will take necessary precautions, the company’s deepening ties to the federal government are bound to spark debate about the balance between technological innovation and security concerns.