Image source: topwar.ru
The Pentagon's DARPA research agency reported that the X-62A fighter, piloted by artificial intelligence, is successfully conducting simulated air battles with pilot-controlled aircraft. The relevant footage was shown on April 17.
The X-62A fighter, originally designated NF-16D, is a deeply modified two-seat F-16D. It is claimed to be able to simulate the control systems of almost any aircraft, making the X-62A a platform suitable for conducting numerous tests in the air.
Image source: topwar.ru
- noted in DARPA.
The creation of the AI used in the X-62A began in 2022, and autonomous flight tests using algorithms were conducted in December of the same year. As the developer explains, during this testing, changes were made daily to more than 100 thousand lines of machine code.
Image source: topwar.ru
During 2023, the robotic aircraft was tested for maneuverability at Edwards Air Force Base in California. In September 2023, the aircraft was already involved in aerial combat against the manned F-16, starting with defensive maneuvers before moving on to offensive tactics and high-speed frontal battles.