TechAI Takes Flight: F-16 Versus AI in Groundbreaking Aerial Combat Test

AI Takes Flight: F‑16 Versus AI in Groundbreaking Aerial Combat Test

VISTA X-62A airplane

Images source: © Public domain, USAF | Kyle Brasier

8:14 AM EDT, April 22, 2024

For the first time, a simulated aerial combat involving an F-16 and the VISTA X-62A machine, piloted by artificial intelligence, was tested by the DARPA agency. This significant event marks a new milestone in the advancement of combat drones.

The evaluation encompassed a series of simulated, close-range, maneuvering air battles between a human-piloted F-16 and a special test edition of the F-16 named VISTA X-62A, controlled by artificial intelligence.

A person was positioned in the cockpit of this aircraft to take control if unexpected situations arose, but their intervention was not needed.

Although simulated fights featuring AI in a computerized, virtual setting are not unprecedented, the intricacy of real-life air combat's dynamics is such that virtual simulations proved inadequate, necessitating further trials with actual aircraft.

DARPA (Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency) shared that initially, the AI was restricted to performing defensive maneuvers. However, it was also authorized to initiate attacks on the opposing aircraft over time.

DARPA reports indicated that during the encounters, the aircraft maintained a minimum distance of 660 yards from each other and achieved approach speeds of nearly 1,240 mph. The outcomes of these simulated air battles were kept confidential.

Autonomous F-16

Utilized in the tests, the VISTA X-62A (Variable Stability In-flight Simulator Test Aircraft) is a modified F-16 that has been instrumental to the U.S. Air Force since 1992 for testing and developing aerial artificial intelligence technologies.

Constructed based on an Israeli variant of the F-16, this aircraft features altered aerodynamic surfaces and the ability to vector thrust through nozzle deflections, providing it with superior maneuverability compared to conventional F-16s. Additionally, the aircraft has a revamped, reinforced landing gear.

This endeavor, a collaborative effort between DARPA and Skunk Works, also introduced a complete overhaul of the software and the onboard computer EMC2 (Enterprise Mission Computer version 2), affectionately referred to as the Einstein Box.