The US Air Force, together with the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (Darpa), has converted conventional fighter jets for autonomous operation. The F-16 Fighting Falcons modified in this way are currently undergoing an extensive test program.
An artificial intelligence (AI) agent takes over control of the aircraft. A pilot is still on board the machine. They initially handle takeoffs and can take over control in the air if necessary. The flight demonstrates that the USA can equip series-production aircraft with current AI technology, Darpa announced.
Viper Experimentation and Next-generation Operations Model (Venom) is the name of the joint project between the Air Force and the research agency of the US Department of Defense. Within its framework, the Venom Autonomy Kit (VAK) system was developed to control the aircraft. It uses a new interface to the flight control systems. This allows the pilot to easily switch between manual human control and automated AI control.
The fighter jet's software was not changed
A total of six F-16s stationed at Eglin Air Force Base in Florida have been equipped with the VAK. This included not only software but also new hardware and new instruments. However, the original software of the fighter jet was not changed. This enables rapid development of AI systems, said DARPA program manager James Valpiani.
