Robot reality check: Crewed warplanes will remain vital for years, USAF general says
Air Force pushes back on assertions that new manned aircraft are no longer needed.
Audrey Decker | December 7, 2024
Air Force AI & Autonomy Drones
EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif.—The U.S. military is many years away from letting robots take over the role of human pilots, according to the Air Force official who oversees development of AI piloting technology.
“There may be someday we can completely rely on robotized warfare” but “it is centuries away,” said Brig. Gen. Doug Wickert, commander of the 412th Test Wing here.
The base is the hub for testing a host of new planes and technology, including software that enables AI to drive fighter jets. The test wing has been experimenting with autonomous pilots through its X-62A VISTA platform, a modified F-16 jet loaded with AI software.
What AI pilots can do today is remarkable, Wickert said, but there’s still a gap between the digital world and the real deal—and robot pilots still make "unexpected" choices during flight tests.
https://www.defenseone.com/technology/2024/12/robot-reality-check-crewed-warplanes-will-be-vital-years-usaf-general-says/401517/?oref=d1-homepage-top-story
