Specialists from Lockheed Martin’s Skunk Works division, in collaboration with the Operator Performance Laboratory (OPL) at the University of Iowa, organized a demonstration flight as part of an AI-related project. The flight showcased the ability of human operators to oversee and manage AI-controlled aircraft in a simulated combat scenario.
The flight tests, supported by Lockheed Martin’s Demonstrations and Prototypes team, successfully validated the feasibility of integrating manned and unmanned systems for future air combat operations.
During the tests, a human “combat manager” aboard an L-39 Albatros aircraft directed two AI-piloted L-29 Delfin trainer jets. The pilot utilized the L-39’s touchscreen interface to assign targets to the AI systems, which then coordinated their actions to counter two simulated enemy aircraft. The scenario incorporated advanced mission systems and simulated weaponry to replicate the dynamics of real combat engagements.
“The work we are undertaking with the University of Iowa Laboratory is foundational for the future of air combat, where a combination of manned and unmanned systems will operate together to execute complex missions,” said John Clark, Vice President and General Manager of Lockheed Martin Skunk Works. “We are excited to leverage our diverse expertise to advance all elements of this new approach to operations.”
These exercises build on previous experiments utilizing artificial intelligence in air-to-ground operations, such as jamming and geolocation. This year, the focus shifted to aerial combat, where AI directly controlled the autopilot systems of aircraft. However, this test marked the first instance where a pilot monitored and directed AI actions in real time.
The success of this trial could significantly advance the Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) program, which aims to develop combat drones designed to act as “wingmen” and “assistants” for manned aircraft.
Source: ukdefencejournal
