AssetID: 53710409
Headline: RAW VIDEO: US Air Force Secretary Flies In AI Controlled Fighter Jet
Caption: US Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall flew on the X-62A VISTA on 2 May 2024 - an experimental aircraft piloted by Artificial Intelligence. The purpose of this flight was to provide Kendall with a firsthand experience of the aircraft's unique capabilities, which include the integration of machine learning and specialised software to test autonomous flight and other advanced technologies. During the flight, Secretary Kendall witnessed the X-62A execute a series of tactical manoeuvres, responding in real-time to simulated threats while live agents monitored the aircraft's performance. Notably, neither Kendall nor the safety pilot intervened with the controls throughout the flight, showcasing the autonomous capabilities of the X-62A. Managed by the U.S. Air Force Test Pilot School's research division, the X-62A program focuses on advancing multidomain capabilities for the warfighter through innovative research and rapid technology testing. Over the past four years, the team has worked tirelessly to enhance the aircraft's capabilities, culminating in a comprehensive upgrade completed in 2022. Secretary Kendall highlighted the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in revolutionizing aviation, stating: "AI is really taking the most capable technology you have, putting it together and using it on problems that previously had to be solved through human decision making." Originally, the X-62A VISTA, derived from the NF-16 VISTA, served as a platform for simulating flight characteristics. However, recent upgrades have expanded its capabilities, allowing for the integration and testing of AI theories in real-time scenarios. Notably, the Air Force achieved a significant milestone last year when AI agents successfully piloted the X-62A during 12 flights in December 2022. This test campaign involved two AI agents, the AFRL’s Autonomous Air Combat Operations and the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency’s Air Combat Evolution, each performing distinct roles.
Keywords: planes,ai,artificial intelligence,feature,video,military,air force,x-62a
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