# Palantir Maven

**Type:** Military AI targeting system  
**Status:** Active deployment (Iran war, 2026)  
**Key Integration:** Claude (Anthropic) via Palantir contract  

## Overview

Palantir Maven is the operational deployment of AI-assisted combat targeting systems used in the 2026 Iran war. The system integrates Claude through Palantir's existing government contract, generating target lists and ranking them by strategic importance. Commanders can produce new target lists in minutes using the system.

## Technical Architecture

- **AI Model:** Claude (Anthropic) accessed via Palantir's classified network contract
- **Function:** Target list generation and strategic importance ranking
- **Deployment:** Classified military networks
- **Speed:** Minutes for new target list generation (previously hours/days)

## Governance Implications

### Multi-Tier Deployment Loophole

The Palantir Maven deployment reveals a structural gap in AI safety governance: Anthropic's autonomous weapons restrictions do not apply to Claude's use in combat targeting because deployment occurs through Palantir's separate government contract. The supply chain risk designation targets direct Anthropic contracts, not Palantir reselling Claude.

### Legal Status

- Anthropic designated as supply chain risk (February-March 2026)
- Claude remains accessible on classified networks via Palantir's existing contract
- DC Circuit cited Maven deployment as reason for denying judicial oversight during 'active military conflict'

## Timeline

- **2026-02** — Anthropic designated supply chain risk by DoD
- **2026-03** — Claude integration with Palantir Maven confirmed in Iran war operations
- **2026-04-08** — DC Circuit cites Maven deployment in stay denial
- **2026-05** — Arms Control Association reports Claude generating target lists in active combat

## Sources

- Arms Control Association, "AI Plays Major Role in War on Iran" (May 2026)
- MIT Technology Review, "AI turns the Iran war into theater" (March 2026)
- Hunton & Williams, "Anthropic and Iran — the Government Contracting State of Play" (April 2026)
- DC Circuit stay denial (April 8, 2026)