Musk Contradicts Reported SpaceX-Anthropic Agreement
On May 29, Elon Musk pushed back against claims of a three-year contract linking SpaceX with AI firm Anthropic, clarifying that the two parties have only signed a six-month arrangement. According to Musk, SpaceX has not committed to a long-term lease of its Colossus hardware, though he did not entirely rule out that possibility down the line. He emphasized that it was SpaceX—not Anthropic—that pushed for the shorter rental period.
Key Terms of the SpaceX-Anthropic Deal
Documents filed by SpaceX with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission show Anthropic agreed to pay $1.25 billion per month through May 2029. Usage levels are set to ramp up gradually in May and June 2026 at a discounted rate. The filings also note that either side can terminate the agreement with 90 days' notice.
Musk stressed that SpaceX would not abandon Anthropic and would ensure a smooth transition if the partnership ends.
He also noted that SpaceX might eventually need to reclaim its equipment. The terms may have shifted since the documents were filed. Observers point out that SpaceX is actively signing new contracts as it prepares for a public stock listing.
This situation highlights the evolving nature of partnerships between tech companies and the growing need for flexible agreements. The short lease term could reflect SpaceX's strategic approach to asset management, as well as potential market shifts that might affect future collaboration. Given SpaceX's upcoming IPO plans, such deals may play a key role in attracting investment and bolstering the company's financial stability.