by The US Air Force has achieved a major milestone in the development of autonomous aerial capabilities, as an artificial intelligence (AI) system successfully piloted the XQ-58A Valkyrie experimental combat drone. The historic flight took place on July 25, 2023, at the Eglin Test and Training Complex in Florida.
This breakthrough was part of the Skyborg Vanguard program, which focuses on integrating AI and machine learning technologies into autonomous aircraft. The AI system controlling the Valkyrie was trained using sophisticated algorithms developed by the US Air Force Research Laboratory’s (AFRL) Autonomous Air Combat Operations (AACO) team. The training involved millions of hours of high-fidelity simulations and sorties in the simulator X-62 VISTA.
The XQ-58A Valkyrie, a joint effort between Kratos Unmanned Aerial Systems (KUAS) and the AFRL, aims to develop the necessary technologies for a jet-powered autonomous combat drone capable of independent operations and collaboration with other drones, as well as human-machine teams.
During the successful three-hour sortie, the AI-controlled Valkyrie showcased its ability to safely fly and address tactically relevant challenges. The flight confirmed the effectiveness of a multi-layer safety framework and demonstrated the AI system’s capability to solve complex problems in real-time.
Col. Tucker Hamilton, DAF AI Test and Operations Chief, emphasized the significance of this achievement, stating that it enables the development of AI agents with modern air-to-air and air-to-surface skills that can be applied to other autonomy programs.
The primary goal of developing autonomous combat drones like the Valkyrie is to reduce costs and enhance operational efficiency. These drones can serve as escorts for traditional piloted aircraft and execute missions in high-risk environments where human involvement could be potentially dangerous.
The XQ-58A Valkyrie boasts impressive specifications, including a wingspan of 22 ft (6.7 m), a top speed of 567 knots (652 mph, 1,050 km/h), 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 small-diameter bombs.
Brigadier General Scott Cain, AFRL Commander, acknowledged the crucial role of AI in future warfare, particularly in rapidly assessing the operational landscape and making timely decisions. He emphasized the necessity for collaboration between government, academia, and industry partners to keep pace with the relentless evolution of AI, autonomous operations, and human-machine teaming.
This successful flight of the AI-controlled Valkyrie marks a significant step forward in the development of autonomous aerial capabilities for the US Air Force. It represents a major breakthrough in integrating AI systems with military drones and lays the groundwork for the advancements and applications of AI in future missions.
