The Air Force is developing pilotless AI-powered drones, known as collaborative combat aircraft (CCA), to act as a supplement to traditional fighter jets, raising questions surrounding the role of humans in conflicts waged with lethal autonomous weapons. The CCA program, which aims to build 1,000 to 2,000 drones at an affordable cost, represents a seismic shift in Air Force procurement, shifting the focus to software that can enhance weapon systems and opening opportunities for new technology firms to compete with traditional defense contractors.
The Air Force is developing autonomous combat planes that utilize artificial intelligence and do not require a pilot.
The United States Air Force is seeking nearly $6 billion in funding to construct a fleet of XQ-58A Valkyrie drones, which will cost $3 million each and are intended to enhance the country's drone production in response to China's increasing weapon procurement efforts.
The US Air Force is seeking $5.8 billion in funding over five years to develop an operational concept for the loyal wingman program, which pairs human pilots with AI-guided drones that can overpower enemy fighters or rush ahead into defended airspace, with the Valkyrie drone from Kratos Defense & Security Solutions offering a cost-effective option at around $4 million per unit. However, roboticist Mary L. "Missy" Cummings believes the focus should be on using AI to set up routes and spatially arrange aircraft, rather than engaging in dogfights.
Lockheed Martin and the University of Iowa have successfully demonstrated artificial intelligence-controlled mission capabilities using piloted aircraft, showcasing the potential for autonomous uncrewed systems to collaborate with crewed platforms in combat operations.
