The Air Force demonstrated the capabilities of an artificial intelligence-controlled fighter jet Friday, sending Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall up in an experimental F-16 to simulate an aerial dogfight with a human pilot.
The Air Force acknowledged that their AI technology was not fully developed, but it has plans for 1,000 unmanned warplanes operating by 2028.
Called Vista, the F-16 took Kendall on an hour-long flight above Edwards Air Force Base in California. While in the air, Vista “battled” with a second human-piloted F-16, maneuvering at more than 500 mph, passing within 1,000 feet of each other.
Back on the ground, Kendall told reporters, “It’s a security risk not to have it. At this point, we have to have it.”