The model is the first OpenAI has rated "Critical" under its Preparedness Framework, reflecting its ability to find and exploit novel security vulnerabilities

OpenAI says Astra is considerably more capable at cyber tasks than GPT-5.6 Sol. Following the Hugging Face incident, it is being especially cautious about releasing it.

The company will give select partners early access to its Astra AI model—so they have time to shore up their defenses.