WATCH: US Air Force conducts first-ever human vs AI aerial dogfight

The US military carried out a major experiment, matching a piloted aircraft against an AI-controlled F-16. The AI-managed F-16D X-62A, also recognised as the Variable-stability In-flight Simulator Test Aircraft (VISTA), engaged in an aerial combat session last year.

This information was disclosed recently by the US Air Force and DARPA. Military officials stated that the trials demonstrated the potential for machine learning to revolutionise aerial combat tactics.

Watch the video here:

DARPA initiated AI experimentation in December 2022 through its Air Combat Evolution (ACE) programme, aiming to create an autonomous fighter jet system.

During the September 2023 dogfight, humans were present on the AI-controlled jet with the ability to deactivate the AI, though this wasn't necessary. Both aircraft engaged in close encounters, approaching within 2,000 feet at speeds of 1,200 miles per hour. The outcome of the dogfight was not disclosed.

Bill Gray, the chief test pilot at the Air Force's Test Pilot School, stressed onthe significance of dogfighting in advancing autonomous AI systems for various aerial tasks. The ACE programme, which began in December 2022, has conducted 21 test flights, leading to extensive software modifications.

Also watch |Russia-Ukraine war: Ukrainian soldiers welcome USaidvote

Secretary of the US Air Force, Frank Kendall, informed the US Senate about plans to introduce an autonomously flown F-16 later in the year, with a pilot observing as the technology operates, as reported by Reuters.The goal is for the technology to be fully capable without human intervention, highlighting the evolving role of AI in military aviation.

(With inputs from agencies)