# Reflection AI

**Type:** AI company (NVIDIA-backed startup)
**Founded:** Unknown
**Status:** Active
**Significance:** First NVIDIA-backed AI startup to sign Pentagon classified network agreement under 'lawful operational use' terms

## Overview

Reflection AI is a NVIDIA-backed AI startup that became the seventh company to sign Pentagon classified network deployment agreements in May 2026. The company is notable for explicitly framing its acceptance of 'lawful operational use' terms as precedent-setting for the broader AI industry's relationship with US government.

## Timeline

- **2026-05-01** — Signed Pentagon agreement for AI deployment on Impact Level 6 and Impact Level 7 classified networks under 'lawful operational use' terms. Spokesperson stated this 'sets a precedent for how AI labs could work across the U.S. government.'

## Strategic Significance

Reflection AI's inclusion in the May 2026 Pentagon deal represents NVIDIA's expansion from hardware/infrastructure provider to direct AI capability deployment through backed startups. The company's explicit framing of its acceptance as 'precedent-setting' suggests coordination with NVIDIA's broader strategy for government AI market positioning.

## Sources

- Pentagon May 1, 2026 announcement (CNN Business / Breaking Defense / Tom's Hardware / Nextgov / The Hill / Washington Post)