...Google claims it is only providing open-source software to Project Maven, which means the military would be able to still use the technology, even if Google didn’t accept payment...

It never failed to amaze me during my time in the 5 ring circus how much the Pentagon will pay for something that is free.

But who believes that Google isn't getting paid? If not in greenbacks then in favors on the Hill the next time the privacy witch hunt starts up. Then they can claim "National Defense" and also "Nanny nanny boo boo" when dragged before some Senate Select Committee on Making Sound Bites.