OpenAI robotics chief Caitlin Kalinowski resigns over Pentagon AI deal

Caitlin Kalinowski, who led robotics and consumer hardware at OpenAI, announced on Saturday that she is stepping down from her role, citing concerns about the company’s agreement with the United States Department of Defense.

In a post shared on X (formerly Twitter), Kalinowski said the organisation moved too quickly in deciding to deploy its artificial intelligence (AI) models on the Pentagon’s classified cloud networks.

She suggested the deal required deeper discussion before moving forward.

“AI has an important role in national security,” Kalinowski wrote, but added that certain boundaries require careful oversight.

She expressed particular concern about the possibility of surveillance of Americans without judicial supervision and the use of autonomous weapons without direct human authorisation.

However, she later emphasised that her decision centered on governance issues, writing that agreements involving powerful AI systems should not be rushed without clearly defined safeguards.

Despite her criticism, Kalinowski noted that she holds “deep respect” for Sam Altman and the broader OpenAI team.

OpenAI said after the agreement was announced that it includes additional protections governing how the technology can be used. The company reiterated that its policies prohibit the use of its systems for domestic surveillance or fully autonomous weapons.

In a statement to Reuters, OpenAI said it understands that people hold strong views about the role of AI in defense and pledged to continue discussions with employees, governments and civil society groups worldwide.

Kalinowski joined OpenAI in 2024 after previously leading augmented-reality hardware development at Meta Platforms.