The US Air Force's X-62A test jet has successfully demonstrated its ability to use artificial intelligence to autonomously intercept an 'enemy' aircraft.
The X-62A, a modified F-16, used its infrared search and track pod to detect and track a T-38 jet trainer, and then moved to intercept it. This capability is a key goal for the Air Force's future Collaborative Combat Air drones.
The test, known as Have Heat, showed that the X-62A's AI system can ingest live sensor data and execute combat-critical maneuvers in real time. The Air Force and Lockheed Martin conducted the test, which marks a significant step forward in the development of autonomous air combat capabilities.
