US Air Force Tests AI-Controlled Fighter Jets

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The successful test flight of an AI-controlled F-16 fighter jet is a new step in aviation. This initiative has been done by the US Air Force.

This step is incredible in the future of aerial combat. This test flight shows the potential of AI. This is a very huge thing in aviation technology.

AI-Controlled F-16 Test Flight

The AI-controlled F-16 fighter jet was named as Vista. It soared in the sky of Edward’s Air Force Base. The base was located in California. The advanced capabilities were beautifully showcased during the test flight.

High-level supervision was provided during the test flight. This was done by Frank Kendall. He is the Air Force Secretary with a huge level of experience. The test flight was of 1 hour. Frank observed the extraordinary flying maneuvers exceeding 550 miles per hour performed by the AI. The forces were up to five times the force of gravity.

This AI-controlled fighter jet was applauded for one more reason as well. To prove its ability to handle complex situations his AI-controlled fighter jet took part in a mock battle. This battle was with a human-piloted F-16 jet. The AI jet was successful in proving its marvels.

Air Force Ambitious AI Plans

With the successful completion of the test flight, the Air Force’s goals have been announced. The US Air Force aims to prepare 1000 at least unmanned jets. These will be controlled by AI. This development is planned to be completed by 2028.

VISTA gets a new look — After recently receiving a new look and modifications at the Ogden Air Logistics Complex, the NF-16D known as VISTA (Variable stability In-flight Test Aircraft), departs Hill Air Force Base, Utah, Jan 30, 2019. This aircraft is the only one of its kind in the world and is the flag-ship of the United States Air Force Test Pilot School. This F-16 has been highly modified, allowing pilots to change the aircraft flight characteristics and stability to mimic that of other aircraft. (U.S. Air Force photo by Alex R. Lloyd)

The dedication of the Air Force to using AI in aviation is second to none. This will bring a revolution to the military flight system. This will be the same way as stealth technology changed in the 1990s.

Benefits

The AI-controlled fighter jets are a cheaper option. They are safer in comparison with manned planes like the F-35.

The use of manned fighters can be vulnerable. This is because space and electronics have changed. This has resulted in advanced air defense systems.

The use of AI-controlled plans will provide the following benefit

Enhanced Security
Cost saving
Improved Military Strategy

Concerns

The use of AI fighter jets has posed questions. Experts have expressed their concerns about the ethical practices while operating such planes. As these planes will use AI to make decisions it can be dangerous. Making decisions completely without human input can also lead to mistakes. Humanitarian organizations and the International Committee of the Red Cross have asked for caution will using autonomous weapons.

They have called to impose high restrictions and present a detailed set of rules on the use of such things. These planes they claim can result in loss of lives too.

Testing AI in Dogfights

Keeping the concerns in line the Air Force and DARPA are testing the AI. The use of AI in simulated battles is in the testing phase. Dogfighting tests are being conducted with X-62A Vista Aircraft. This will build the trust and reliability of the AI.

The test is conducted properly. The AI practises first in the computer. It learns different flying moves and fighting moves etc. It then controls the plane to do the same as in the simulation. The AI keeps on learning from its progress.

This is done to improve the flying skills. These tests will ensure that AI-controlled planes can be trusted to handle challenges.

The use of AI-controlled jets can be a revolution in aviation. It offers numerous benefits. However, the ethical questions raised are concerning too. Careful consideration is necessary as the technology advances.