US Air Force tests AI-powered jet in autonomous air intercept flights

The U.S. Air Force has successfully tested an artificial intelligence (AI)-powered system capable of autonomously detecting, tracking and intercepting another aircraft in flight, marking a step forward in the development of future autonomous combat aircraft.

The tests were conducted using the X-62A VISTA (Variable Stability In-flight Simulator Test Aircraft), a specially modified F-16D operated by the U.S. Air Force Test Pilot School. The program, known as Have Heat, involved collaboration between the Air Force, Lockheed Martin's Skunk Works division and other industry partners, The War Zone reports.

According to the U.S. Air Force, the AI system used live data from Lockheed Martin's Legion Pod infrared search-and-track sensor to identify and track an airborne target before directing the aircraft to autonomously manoeuvre and carry out an interception in real time.

Lockheed Martin said the demonstration showcased "autonomous AI sensor-to-vehicle control," with the AI agent using targeting information from an operational infrared sensor to complete successful air intercepts.

The testing campaign included eight flights, during which the X-62A carried out 27 AI-controlled intercepts. A T-38 jet trainer served as the live target throughout the trials.

The demonstration is intended to support the U.S. Air Force's development of Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA), a new generation of AI-enabled uncrewed aircraft designed to operate alongside crewed fighter jets. The service plans to use the technology to expand autonomous air-to-air combat capabilities in future operations.

By Sabina Mammadli