An experimental XQ-58A “Valkyrie” drone has recently completed a test flight under artificial intelligence control, as announced by the Air Force Research Laboratory (ARFL). The flight took place on July 25 in Florida’s Eglin Test and Training Complex, with the drone being completely AI-controlled for approximately three hours.

This milestone was the result of two years of research and development undertaken in collaboration between the Air Force Research Laboratory, the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center, and the Skyborg Vanguard team. The goal of this partnership was to develop unmanned fighter aircraft capable of autonomous operations.

The XQ-58A “Valkyrie” is an unmanned combat aerial vehicle (UCAV) being tested by Kratos Defense & Security Solutions for the United States Air Force’s Low-Cost Attritable Strike Demonstrator (LCASD) program. Its stealthy design and development are part of the USAF Research Laboratory’s Low-Cost Attritable Aircraft Technology (LCAAT) project portfolio.

This successful test flight marks a significant step forward in the advancement of AI-controlled drone technology. The integration of artificial intelligence into unmanned aircraft has the potential to revolutionize military operations, providing enhanced capabilities and increased efficiency.

With further advancements and refinement, AI-controlled drones like the XQ-58A “Valkyrie” could become invaluable assets, serving as loyal wingmen to human pilots and conducting complex missions with reduced risk.

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