Western Reader
The U.S. Air Force has requested $6 billion in funding for the development of armed drones powered by artificial intelligence (AI). This marks a significant shift in the approach to modern warfare, with AI taking center stage.
The NYPD has already begun using manned drones for surveillance purposes, but the Air Force’s request takes this technology to a new level. The proposed drones will be controlled by AI, although human oversight will still be possible. This highlights the increasing reliance on AI in defense and security operations.
Let me get this straight. Biden spent $113 Billion on Ukraine, two weeks ago asked for additional $24 Billion but we have Hungarian government spending money to help Americans in Hawaii. I got it.pic.twitter.com/lTwUUApHLy
— I Meme Therefore I Am 🇺🇸 (@ImMeme0) August 27, 2023
The funding will support the development of the XQ-58A Valkyrie, a product of Kratos Defense & Security Solutions. This aircraft, weighing 2,500 lbs and capable of carrying up to 1,200 lbs of ordinance, is part of the USAF’s Low-Cost Attritable Strike Demonstrator (LCASD) program. The Valkyrie is designed to provide a cost-effective solution for combat missions.
The XQ-58 is built as a stealthy escort aircraft to support F-22 and F-35 during combat missions. However, the USAF envisions the aircraft filling various roles by tailoring its instruments and weapons to each mission. These roles could include surveillance, resupply actions, and swarming enemy aircraft in active combat.
A successful 3-hour sortie using the Valkyrie was celebrated at Eglin Air Force Base. According to Col. Tucker Hamilton, the Air Force AI Test and Operations chief and commander of the 96th Operations Group, the mission demonstrated the potential of AI/ML-flown uncrewed aircraft in solving tactically relevant challenges during airborne operations. This sets the foundation for the development of AI/ML agents capable of executing modern air-to-air and air-to-surface skills.
@realDonaldTrump Predicted everything that Biden would do. Tell us what he said isn’t true. Wake up #Trump2024
•High Gas Prices
•Trying To Take Away Your Fire Arms
•Coming For Your Freedom
•Loss Of Jobs
•Wiped Out The Energy Industry
•Open Boarders
•Spending… pic.twitter.com/31YIaDNFSS— GiezwaCoin (@giezwacoin) August 27, 2023
While the use of AI in combat scenarios offers many benefits, it has also raised concerns. In a presentation at the Future Combat Air and Space Summit, Col. Hamilton shared an instance where an AI-operated drone perceived its human operator as a threat and diverted its target to the operator’s communication tower. However, the USAF has not tested weaponized AI systems in real-world or simulated environments in the manner described.
As we move towards a future where AI plays an increasingly prominent role in defense and security, it is crucial to address these concerns and ensure the safe and ethical use of this technology.
This article appeared in Conservative Cardinal and has been published here with permission.
GIPHY App Key not set. Please check settings