- AI tools like Anthropics Claude were used in recent U.S. military strikes on Iran starting Feb 28
- Large language models aid in intelligence, target selection, and scenario simulations in warfare
- Claude processes data from intercepts and satellite imagery for U.S. Central Command operations
Artificial intelligence is becoming deeply embedded in warfare, and the recent U.S. military operations in Iran are living proof of how large language models such as Anthropic's Claude are part of the war room. According to reports by the Wall Street Journal and Axios, Claude was used during U.S. strikes on Iran that began on Feb. 28. This integration marks a shift into an AI-driven era of warfare, where intelligence analysis, target selection, and scenario simulations are increasingly being handled by AI.
How Claude And Other LLMs Are Being Used In Iran, Other Warzones
Large language models have widely been used for open-source intelligence (OSINT) in Middle East and other recent conflicts. They enable fast processing of datasets to monitor troop movements, evaluate propaganda, and detect misinformation, accelerating decision-making in dynamic battle environments.
In their latest usage, reports indicate that Anthropic's Claude family of LLMs played a role in U.S. operations in Iran on Feb. 28. Claude — along with variants like Claude Gov or custom government versions — have reportedly been employed by the U.S. Central Command (Centcom). These models process massive volumes of data from intercepts, satellite imagery, and signals intelligence to produce summaries, threat assessments, and real-time situational awareness. Claude was reported to be used in the U.S. raid to capture former Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro as well.
But AI usage hasn't been limited to Claude. The U.S. Department of Defense has built a portfolio of AI capabilities in recent years. Palantir Technologies reportedly provides tools that create virtual digital twins of strategic locations and analyse drone/sensor data to identify targets. OpenAI's ChatGPT and GPT-series models, including advanced frontier versions, have similarly been used by the Pentagon, with OpenAI last week announcing it struck a deal with the Pentagon to deploy “advanced AI systems in classified environments.” Through platforms like GenAI.mil, even Alphabet Inc. offers Gemini capabilities for the U.S. government.
Israel's Habsora And Lavender: Advanced AI In Combat
Israel similarly has advanced AI systems in combat. The Israel Defense Forces have deployed the Habsora AI system to generate strike targets from intelligence inputs, especially in Gaza, and is perceived to be continuing its usage in current conflict zones, including Iran and Lebanon. Habsora uses surveillance, drone footage, and other sources to detect target infrastructure, enabling identification and tracking for strikes.
Israel's AI usage isn't restricted to infrastructure targets alone. Its Lavender AI tool even flags individuals based on data such as location, communications, and social media, helping to identify and track suspects.
Overall, the integration of commercial LLMs like Claude, ChatGPT, and others — alongside specialised systems like Israel's Habsora And Lavender — highlights how AI is reshaping modern warfare, from data-heavy analysis to target identification. Its usage is only expected to grow in the future.
Also read: Amazon's Cloud Unit Shuts Down Temporarily After 'Objects Hit' UAE Data Centre Facility
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