Lockheed Martin and University of Iowa Advance AI in Air-to-Air Intercepts
Innovative Collaboration Paves the Way for Autonomous Flight Operations
IOWA CITY, Iowa, June 5, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Lockheed Martin Skunk Works® (NYSE: LMT) has teamed up with the University of Iowa’s Operator Performance Laboratory (OPL) to successfully demonstrate the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in air-to-air intercept scenarios, marking a pivotal development in the realm of military aviation.
Breakthrough Achievements in Flight Demonstrations
The successful flights represent a significant milestone for Skunk Works’ Tactical AI team, showcasing AI’s capability to command a full-scale live aircraft, specifically one of OPL’s L-29 Delfin jets. The AI system executed tactical exercises based on precise commands regarding heading, speed, and altitude. This effort included simulated-to-real transfer test objectives against a virtual adversary during both offensive and defensive maneuvers.
Diverse Testing Scenarios
During the flights, eight distinct test cases were conducted, challenging the AI agent across a range of situations. The tests included standard head-to-head engagements as well as off-aspect encounters, missile support, and missile defeat scenarios. Observers noted a seamless transfer of learned behaviors from simulation to real flight, with the AI appearing both intentional and decisive in its maneuvers.
Pioneering New Capabilities
“This was the first live exercise of the new flight interface. It’s thrilling to see the separate components successfully integrate on the L-29 and demonstrate new capabilities. The complete system performed even better in live flight than in simulation,” remarked Dr. Tom “Mach” Schnell, a professor at the Iowa Technology Institute.
Significance of Live Flight Tests
Matthew “Gabe” Beard, Lockheed Martin’s autonomy/AI and machine learning engineering manager, emphasized the importance of these live tests, stating, “Live flight tests are a crucial aspect of advancing our expertise in AI and autonomy. These flights are powerful demonstrations of our ability to quickly and affordably develop and test operationally relevant AI capabilities.” This sentiment captures the significance of practical applications of AI in defense technologies.
Future Endeavors and Strategic Developments
The recent flight tests are part of a broader initiative aimed at accelerating the development and implementation of AI-driven autonomy for air-to-air missions. Plans are underway for additional flight tests later this year, which will build on these achievements and introduce added complexity by integrating more aircraft into offensive counter-air and battle management scenarios.
Commitment to Ethical Standards
Lockheed Martin’s commitment to ethical practices in AI and machine learning is evident. The company ensures that its AI solutions are designed to augment human capabilities, processing vast amounts of data to deliver actionable intelligence while maintaining strict adherence to the U.S. Department of Defense’s guidelines on the ethical and safe use of autonomous systems. Humans remain in the loop, holding the final decision-making authority within these AI-driven systems.
About Lockheed Martin
Lockheed Martin stands as a global leader in defense technology, driving innovation and advancing scientific discovery. With a focus on all-domain mission solutions and a vision for 21st Century Security®, the company emphasizes the delivery of transformative technologies to keep their clients ahead of the curve. Further details can be found at Lockheedmartin.com.
Contact Information
For more inquiries, please reach out to:
Media Contact: Candis Roussel
Phone: +1 661-264-8592
Email: candis.s.roussel@lmco.com
Source
Lockheed Martin Aeronautics
FAQs
- What is the purpose of the collaboration between Lockheed Martin and the University of Iowa?
The collaboration aims to demonstrate the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in air-to-air intercept scenarios, enhancing autonomous flight capabilities. - What aircraft was used in the flight demonstrations?
The flight demonstrations utilized an L-29 Delfin jet from the University of Iowa’s Operator Performance Laboratory. - How did the AI perform during the tests?
The AI showed effective transfer of learned behaviors from simulation to real flight and made intentional, decisive actions during tactical exercises. - What is the importance of live flight tests according to Lockheed Martin?
Live flight tests are crucial for advancing expertise in AI and autonomy, demonstrating quick and cost-effective development of AI capabilities relevant to military operations. - What commitment does Lockheed Martin have regarding ethical AI use?
Lockheed Martin is committed to ethical practices, ensuring humans remain involved in decision-making for AI systems in accordance with Department of Defense guidelines.
