US Air Force and DARPA Achieve Breakthrough in AI-Controlled Fighter Jet Testing

The US Air Force, in collaboration with DARPA, has achieved a significant milestone in the field of AI by successfully testing an AI-controlled fighter jet against manned F-16s in simulated dogfights. This breakthrough in aviation AI took place during the test of the experimental X-62A VISTA aircraft in late 2023 as part of DARPA's Air Combat Evolution program. The ACE program aims at human-machine cooperation, with human pilots working closely with AI co-pilots in controlling a fleet of AI-controlled drones. The successful tests pave the way for future military and civilian applications, enhancing pilot safety and marking a crucial step in the integration of AI into aviation.

Key Takeaways

• In a collaboration between DARPA and the US Air Force, an AI-controlled aircraft, the X-62A VISTA, engaged in simulated dogfights against manned F-16 fighter jets, marking a breakthrough in AI application in aviation.
• The Air Combat Evolution (ACE) program has rapidly progressed since 2019, culminating in the X-62A's completion of dogfights against real F-16s in September 2023, flying at speeds of 1200 miles-per-hour and as close as 2,000 ft.
• The goal of the ACE program is to achieve human-machine cooperation, with human pilots closely working with AI co-pilots to control a fleet of AI-controlled drones, exemplifying the US Air Force's plan to invest around $5.8 billion in autonomous drones in the next five years.

Analysis

The successful test of an AI-controlled fighter jet by the US Air Force and DARPA could significantly impact military and aviation sectors. This breakthrough signifies a pivotal step toward human-machine cooperation, revolutionizing the future of aerial combat. The integration of AI into aviation not only promises enhanced pilot safety but also poses implications for defense contractors, AI technology developers, and the global geopolitical landscape. In the short term, this milestone could accelerate investment in AI-controlled drones and impact the competitiveness of traditional fighter jet manufacturers. Over the long term, it may reshape warfare strategies and national security policies, fueling an AI arms race among nations.

Did You Know?

• X-62A VISTA: The X-62A VISTA is an experimental aircraft developed as part of DARPA's Air Combat Evolution (ACE) program, aimed at testing and advancing the integration of AI into aviation. It achieved a significant milestone by engaging in simulated dogfights against manned F-16 fighter jets, highlighting the advancements in AI application in aviation.

• Air Combat Evolution (ACE) program: The ACE program, led by DARPA and the US Air Force, focuses on achieving human-machine cooperation in aviation. It involves human pilots working closely with AI co-pilots to control a fleet of AI-controlled drones. The program's goal is to enhance pilot safety and efficiency through the integration of AI technologies into aviation operations.

• Autonomous drones investment: The US Air Force plans to invest approximately $5.8 billion in autonomous drones over the next five years, demonstrating a significant commitment to advancing unmanned aerial technologies for military and civilian applications. This investment reflects the growing importance of autonomous technologies in modern aviation strategies.