The U.S. Air Force has achieved a major milestone in military technology by successfully completing its first unmanned flight utilizing artificial intelligence (AI).
The groundbreaking three-hour sortie was conducted by an XQ-58A Valkyrie aircraft, with AI algorithms programmed by the Air Force Research Lab. The flight took place on July 25 at the Eglin Air Force Base in Florida.
The Air Force Research Laboratory collaborated with Kratos to develop the unmanned aircraft. The lab highlighted that the AI algorithms used for the flight were developed in-house and incorporated millions of hours of simulations. USAF Col. Tucker Hamilton, commander of the 96th Operations Group, emphasized the significance of the mission, stating that it demonstrated a multi-layer safety framework and showcased an AI/ML agent solving a tactically relevant challenge problem during airborne operations.
This unmanned flight paves the way for the Air Force to develop AI/ML agents capable of executing modern air-to-air and air-to-surface skills, which can be quickly integrated into the Collaborative Combat Aircraft program. The XQ-58A Valkyrie, designed as a reusable unmanned aircraft, offers a cost-effective alternative to both manned and unmanned aircraft options, according to the Air Force Research Laboratory.
The successful flight is the result of a four-year partnership between the Air Force, Skyborg Vanguard, and the Autonomous Aircraft Experimentation programs. The XQ-58A Valkyrie is launched via a rocket from a rail system and can be controlled from either an airborne fighter or a ground station. A computer system onboard the aircraft determines the flight path and adjusts the throttle settings in compliance with Air Force commands.
Brig. Gen. Scott Cain, the research lab commander, emphasized the critical role of AI in future warfighting, stating that it will be essential for understanding the operational picture and making rapid decisions. He further highlighted the rapid evolution of AI, autonomous operations, and human-machine teaming, emphasizing the need for collaboration among government, academia, and industry partners to keep pace.
The successful unmanned flight with AI marks a significant breakthrough for the U.S. Air Force, showcasing the potential of advanced military technology. With the development of AI/ML agents, the Air Force is poised to enhance its capabilities in air-to-air and air-to-surface operations, while also benefiting from cost-effective unmanned aircraft options. As AI continues to evolve, it is clear that its integration into military operations will play a crucial role in future warfare.
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