Air Force Secretary Gets in Cockpit of Self-Flying Fighter Plane

The X-62A VISTA, a modified F-16 testbed aircraft, is helping the Air Force explore artificial intelligence applications in combat aircraft.

Jack Daleo

Monday, May 06, 2024 at 03:36 PM ET

Verified

U.S. Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall flies in the X-62A VISTA autonomous fighter plane above Edwards Air Force Base in California on May 2. [Courtesy: U.S. Air Force/Richard Gonzales]

Key Takeaways:

U.S. Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall personally flew in an AI-controlled X-62A VISTA fighter jet that autonomously performed simulated dogfighting maneuvers, marking a significant endorsement of advanced AI in combat aviation.
The X-62A VISTA uses advanced machine learning AI, developed under DARPA's ACE program, to learn and execute complex air combat tactics, demonstrating the ability to defeat human pilots in simulated dogfights.
The Air Force plans to deploy thousands of AI-powered autonomous combat aircraft by 2028 through programs like CCA and NGAD, aiming to reduce costs, enhance capabilities, and maintain a competitive edge.
Despite its potential, the development of autonomous weapons systems raises ethical concerns about civilian casualties and accountability, though the Air Force emphasizes human oversight and the necessity to keep pace with rival nations like China.

See a mistake? Contact us.

U.S. Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall is putting his money where his mouth is.

Last week, Kendall got in the cockpit of a self-flying fighter plane during a historic flight at Edwards Air Force Base (KEDW) in California. The aircraft—called the X-62A Variable In-flight Simulator Test Aircraft, or VISTA for short—is a modified F-16 testbed and represents the Air Force’s first foray into aircraft flown entirely by machine learning AI models.