Meta changes tack to open up Llama AI to U.S. defense sector

Meta has opened up access to its open-source Llama AI models to U.S. defense agencies, including their external partners. 

The company announced it was “pleased to confirm” that the technology is now available to support critical national security efforts, with the expansion including major firms such as Amazon Web Services (AWS), Lockheed Martin, Microsoft, and Oracle.

Meta’s statement detailed the work being conducted by the respective companies to harness Llama in line with national security missions. This includes Oracle utilizing the models to aid technicians to identify problems with aircraft quicker, and ultimately get them back in service as soon as possible. 

“These kinds of responsible and ethical uses of open source AI models like Llama will not only support the prosperity and security of the United States, they will also help establish U.S. open source standards in the global race for AI leadership,” read the statement.   

Meta has strongly emphasized ethical AI development, however, critics are questioning the decision to increase the role of tech and AI in defense and the potential consequences of AI in warfare.

The parent company of Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp (which recently launched a contacts storing feature) has strived to ensure the AI tools are used in compliance with international legal frameworks, and the interests of transparency. Meta wants to push ahead to set a high standard for open-source AI, acting as a flag bearer for the U.S. to lead global practices. 

The company led by CEO Mark Zuckerberg said, “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.”

Previously, the tech giant had restricted the use of its AI models for military purposes, but this position has changed, for the benefit of its native country, the U.S.  It also comes amid a recent report of Chinese military researchers using an older version of Llama 2 to develop their defense interests.

As stated above, Meta wants to be a driver in shaping America’s security infrastructure and position at the forefront of AI leadership, which would vindicate its decision to soften its stance on how Llama and other tools can be used.

Image credit: Via Ideogram

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