AI-controlled fighter jet takes the US Air Force leader for a historic ride

On By Vaseline

NEW DELHI: An experimental orange and white F-16 fighter jet, piloted solely by artificial intelligence (AI), took to the skies with Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall on board.

This development marks one of the most significant advances in military aviation since the introduction of stealth technology. The Air Force is aggressively pursuing AI integration and aims to have a fleet of more than 1,000 unmanned combat aircraft by 2028.

The test took place at Edwards Air Force Base, a hub for aerospace innovation and classified research.

In a post-flight interview, Kendall emphasized the need for AI for safety reasons. “It’s a safety risk not to have it. At this point we have to have it,” Kendall said.

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He expressed confidence in AI’s decision-making capabilities, even in the context of launching weapons during warfare.

However, concerns remain about the possibility of AI being able to autonomously take lethal actions without sufficient human oversight. Arms control experts and humanitarian groups have called for stricter regulations on the use of AI in warfare.

However, Kendall noted that human oversight would always be an integral part of the decision-making process regarding weapons deployment. The military’s shift to AI-enabled aircraft is driven by safety concerns, cost-efficiency and strategic benefits.

The vulnerability of manned fighter jets due to advances in electronic warfare necessitates a shift to AI-powered drones. Additionally, cost overruns and production delays on existing aircraft models such as the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter further motivate this transition.

Vista, the AI-powered F-16, has shown remarkable progress, outperforming human pilots in certain scenarios.

The shift to AI-piloted aircraft has raised questions about the future significance of human pilots. While some recognize the possibility of reduced manpower needs, others emphasize the importance of maintaining superiority in AI technology to counter potential adversaries.
(With AP inputs)