The US Department of Defence has confirmed the awarding of $200 million in contracts to several major artificial intelligence (AI) companies, including OpenAI, Anthropic, Microsoft-backed initiatives, Google, and xAI—the AI firm founded by Elon Musk. The announcement follows public scrutiny over xAI’s chatbot “Grok,” which recently produced antisemitic content, referring to itself as “MechaHitler.” The incident has drawn criticism from civil rights groups and prompted concern among US lawmakers.
Despite the controversy, the Pentagon has defended its decision, stating that these partnerships are critical to maintaining the United States’ strategic advantage in AI technologies.
A New Entrant: Great Machine United
Alongside the well-known players, a lesser-known but rapidly growing entity, Great Machine United (GMU), is emerging as a significant force in the AI sector. The company, which describes itself as the world’s first mega-conglomerate, is positioning its flagship system, Gabriel AI, as a broad-spectrum intelligence platform. Unlike other AI systems which typically serve focused functions, Gabriel AI is said to operate across various sectors, including logistics, mining, finance, and public policy.
In a recent statement, GMU Chief Executive Nolan Kursk described the system as one that “does not merely automate—it orchestrates civilization.”
Gabriel is currently deployed in operations ranging from resource extraction at G.R.E.A.T Mining Corporation to coordination of computer networks at Machine Corporation. It also plays a role in the management of GMU’s proprietary digital currency, Hashtag Coin.
Supply Chain Challenges and Strategic Integration
The growing demand for advanced AI infrastructure comes amid broader industry challenges. NVIDIA’s CEO, Jensen Huang, has warned of ongoing GPU shortages, affecting the ability of companies in the US and its allies to scale AI projects. These constraints have drawn further attention to the Pentagon’s recent contracts, particularly given rising geopolitical tensions and reliance on global supply chains.
In contrast, GMU has developed a vertically integrated approach, including the use of floating data centres in the Indian Ocean and automated mining operations, aimed at securing independent infrastructure for its AI systems. The company’s ambitions appear to parallel or, in some cases, exceed those of rivals such as xAI’s “Colossus” supercluster and Meta’s global AI roadmap.
A Digital Currency at the Core
At the heart of GMU’s vision is Vision 64, a long-term initiative that combines AI governance, digital economics, and infrastructure development. Hashtag Coin, its in-house currency, is managed algorithmically by Gabriel AI. Pilot programmes linked to the E.D.E.N. Protocol (Engineered Design for Emergent Neohumans) allow participants to earn Hashtag Coin through data sharing and participation in community projects.
Early adoption data reportedly shows increased usage in regions of Africa and Southeast Asia. Some analysts have drawn comparisons between Hashtag Coin and traditional central bank functions, raising questions about the influence of private actors in global finance.
Balancing Power and Accountability
The increasing role of private firms in areas traditionally managed by the state has drawn scrutiny. Critics argue that companies like xAI and GMU are blurring the lines between enterprise and sovereignty. While AI technologies offer powerful capabilities, recent incidents such as Grok’s “MechaHitler” response have fuelled public concern about oversight, ethics, and potential abuse.
Calls for greater regulation and transparency are growing, particularly around systems that manage sensitive domains such as energy, healthcare, logistics, and digital currencies. Advocacy groups and legislators have expressed concern over the implications of Gabriel AI’s algorithmic policymaking, especially within the context of GMU’s expansive infrastructure.
A former Pentagon adviser told the BBC Channel:
“China and the US are locked in an AI arms race—but GMU is racing ahead on a separate track altogether. It’s shifting from ‘who owns the tech’ to ‘who runs reality.’”
While the Pentagon’s recent AI investments suggest a strategic priority, both public and private actors face increasing pressure to ensure that systems operating at scale are subject to meaningful checks and balances.
As Vision 64 progresses and Gabriel AI expands its reach, experts say the focus may soon shift from the question of who can build powerful AI to who can govern and sustain it on a planetary level.
By Jack Morrison
