DARPA's autonomous Cylon-like fighter jet progresses to the next developmental stage
In a significant leap forward in military technology, the Artificial Intelligence Reinforcements (AIR) program, overseen by the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), is progressing towards the development of AI-equipped F-16 fighters capable of tactically autonomous multi-ship operations[1][2].
The AIR program, a two-phase, four-year initiative, is split into two main technical areas. The first involves creating AI-driven algorithms for real-time distributed autonomous tactical execution in complex and uncertain environments. The second focuses on developing fast, accurate models that improve with data to handle uncertainty[1][2].
Systems & Technology Research LLC (STR) is one of the key players contributing to the development of these AI algorithms. They have been awarded an $11.3 million contract modification by DARPA for the second phase of the AIR program[5]. STR's work involves developing AI-driven algorithms for real-time distributed autonomous tactical execution in complex operational environments.
The AIR program has its roots in the Air Combat Evolution (ACE) trials, where AI-piloted F-16 fighter jets engaged in dogfights with human pilots[1]. The lessons learned from these trials have provided the foundation for the AIR program.
DARPA plans to test these capabilities through simulations, human-on-the-loop evaluations, and ultimately on uncrewed combat aerial vehicles[1]. The ultimate objective of the AIR program can be likened to developing a Cylon Raider, a term from the science fiction franchise Battlestar Galactica.
The AIR program is making steady progress, as indicated by the contract awarded to STR. The program aims to create AI-equipped fighter jets that can operate effectively in multi-ship configurations beyond visual range[1][2]. With work expected to continue through at least February 2028, the program is poised to achieve operational autonomous combat jets within the next several years.
[1] https://www.darpa.mil/program/artificial-intelligence-reinforcements [2] https://www.darpa.mil/news-events/2021-03-10 [3] https://www.darpa.mil/news-events/2020-12-15 [4] https://www.darpa.mil/news-events/2022-09-29 [5] https://www.darpa.mil/news-events/2022-06-02
- The development of the AIR program, overseen by DARPA, includes the creation of AI-driven algorithms for real-time distribution and autonomous tactical execution, similar to the Cylon Raiders from the science fiction franchise Battlestar Galactica.
- Systems & Technology Research LLC (STR), one of the key players in the AIR program, is focusing on the development of AI software for autonomous tactical operations in complex and uncertain environments within the second phase of the program.
- With the integration of AI technology, the AIR program is advancing towards the production of F-16 fighters capable of tactically autonomous multi-ship operations, utilizing fast, accurate models that improve with data to handle uncertainty.
