The USAF Pairs Piloted Jets With AI Drones
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.
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