PREVIEW

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, with the AI 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. 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.