On April 9, it was reported that Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall announced to the Senate that he would soon enter the cockpit of an artificial intelligence (AI) operated F-16 for a test flight, according to Defense News.
This comes as the Air Force selected several manufacturers to create a fleet of collaborative combat aircraft (CCAs). These CCAs would allow for “one piloted jet [to] be able to quarterback multiple AI-driven, responsive drones” according to Defense News.
Companies like Shield AI and Lockheed Martin, have developed AI that can be utilized in retro-fitted F-16s.
Numerous companies in the American National Defense sector have invested in developing AI-driven technologies, especially as many forecast a coming conflict with China.
China has invested heavily in air defense systems to counter the United States’ air-based assets. According to General Kenneth Wilsbach, the commander of the United States Pacific Air Forces, China has built “the world’s densest and most integrated air-defense system”, as reported by Business Insider.
CCAs would allow for high-risk missions to be attempted without risking friendly lives, allowing the United States Air Force to operate with greater operational flexibility in highly contested environments.
