Trump signs memo to deploy advanced AI for military, bans vendor shutdowns

President Trump has signed a new national security directive ordering the US military and intelligence agencies to fast-track the integration of cutting-edge artificial intelligence into their operations. The memorandum, designated NSPM-11, was made public on Friday and establishes a clear mandate for the “rapid onboarding of the most advanced AI models from multiple vendors.” It also includes a controversial provision that prohibits any company from disabling, degrading, or modifying an AI system once it has been deployed for national security use.

The directive reflects a significant push to leverage autonomous weapons and military AI systems, positioning the United States to maintain a technological edge over adversaries. By barring vendors from interfering with deployed systems, the memo effectively locks in the operational status of AI tools, even if a company later changes its policies or faces security concerns. This move has sparked debate among technology firms and ethicists, who worry about the implications for accountability and safety.

Under NSPM-11, the Pentagon and intelligence community are expected to prioritize partnerships with private sector AI developers, streamlining procurement and testing processes. The memo also calls for enhanced coordination between agencies to ensure that the most advanced models are fielded quickly, without the bureaucratic delays that have historically slowed defense innovation.

Critics argue that the ban on vendor shutdowns could create risks, as it removes a key lever for companies to address flaws or misuse. Proponents, however, say it is necessary to prevent adversaries from exploiting gaps in AI availability. The memo signals a decisive shift in how the US government approaches defense AI, prioritizing speed and capability over traditional oversight.