The latest test is an outgrowth of the Skyborg Vanguard program focussed on developing the ability of an artificial intelligence/machine learning Agent to fly safely while solving tactically relevant challenges. The agent was trained on a simulator where it honed its skills during millions of hours of high fidelity simulations and sorties in the X-62 VISTA with algorithms developed by AFRL’s Autonomous Air Combat Operations (AACO) team.
A joint project of Kratos Unmanned Aerial Systems (KUAS) and the US Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), the XQ-58A Valkyrie is aimed at developing the necessary technology to create a jet-powered autonomous combat drone that can operate independently without human control, in conjunction with other drones, and as part of a human/machine team.
“The mission proved out a multi-layer safety framework on an AI/ML-flown uncrewed aircraft and demonstrated an AI/ML agent solving a tactically relevant 'challenge problem' during airborne operations,” said Col. Tucker Hamilton, DAF AI Test and Operations chief. “This sortie officially enables the ability to develop AI/ML agents that will execute modern air-to-air and air-to-surface skills that are immediately transferrable to other autonomy programs.”
The idea is to keep down the ever spiraling costs of piloted aircraft by providing the US Air Force with a robotic alternative that can escort and work with fighter aircraft and can also be sent into especially dangerous areas.
With a wingspan of 22 ft (6.7 m) and a top speed of 567 knots (652 mph, 1,050 km/h), the Valkyrie has a service ceiling of 44,997 ft (13,715 m) and a range of 2,128 nm (2,449 miles, 3,941 km). It is capable of carrying up to eight weapons, including JDAMs and other small-diameter bombs.
"AI will be a critical element to future war-fighting and the speed at which we’re going to have to understand the operational picture and make decisions," said Brigadier General Scott Cain, AFRL commander. "AI, Autonomous Operations, and Human-Machine Teaming continue to evolve at an unprecedented pace and we need the coordinated efforts of our government, academia and industry partners to keep pace."
Source: US Air Force/NewAtlas
