The Deterring American AI Model Theft Act of 2026 aims to safeguard U.S. national security by preventing foreign adversaries from stealing proprietary features of closed-source artificial intelligence models owned by American companies. Recognizing the critical role these AI models play in both the economy and national security, the act seeks to deter unauthorized access and extraction of their capabilities. Key provisions include a clear definition of closed-source AI models, which are characterized by proprietary information not publicly available and governed by specific terms of service.