Air Force Secretary to Test AI-Controlled F-16 in Groundbreaking Flight

The test aims to showcase advances in autonomous military technology, with a pilot on board for safety.

Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall will participate as a non-pilot in a test flight of an AI-controlled F-16 this spring.
The initiative is part of the VENOM program, which aims to develop autonomous capabilities for future air combat.
Kendall's flight is intended to demonstrate the safety and effectiveness of AI in controlling complex fighter jet maneuvers.
Despite the progress, the Air Force clarifies that AI-controlled F-16s are not intended for combat but for testing and development.
The program also reflects a broader military strategy to integrate AI into various combat scenarios, competing with advancements by strategic rivals like China.