US Navy Prohibits Use of DeepSeek AI Due to Security Concerns

The US Navy has issued a ban on the use of DeepSeek's artificial intelligence model among its sailors, citing potential security and ethical issues. This decision comes as concerns rise over the model's Chinese origins and its implications for military operations.

In an email distributed to service personnel on Friday, Navy officials explicitly directed that DeepSeek's AI R1 model is “forbidden for any work-related tasks or personal use.” The message warned that sailors should steer clear of the AI technology due to “potential security and ethical concerns associated with the model’s origin and usage.”

DeepSeek, a startup based in Hangzhou, China, recently launched its AI Assistant app, which quickly became the most downloaded free application on the US Apple App Store, overtaking previous leaders like OpenAI’s ChatGPT.

A spokesperson for the US Navy later confirmed to news outlet CNBC that the email was authentic, reinforcing the stance taken against using the Chinese-developed AI application.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt also acknowledged the growing concern, stating that the US National Security Council is “looking into” the ramifications of using DeepSeek’s AI technology.

The rise of DeepSeek’s model has created waves in the US stock market, causing notable declines for major technology firms like Nvidia. Investors are reportedly worried about the disruption DeepSeek's cost-effective AI solutions might pose to established tech giants.

OpenAI’s CEO Sam Altman remarked that DeepSeek’s AI is “an impressive model, particularly around what they are able to deliver for the price.” He expressed confidence that his company would “obviously deliver much better models” and suggested that having a new competitor is “invigorating.”

Former US President Donald Trump has characterized the introduction of DeepSeek’s technology as a “wake-up call” for US tech companies. He believes this development calls for increased competition and innovation among American firms.

Navy, AI, Security, Chinese, Technology