AI-controlled F-16 begins autonomous flight testing for DARPA
NewsJuly 17, 2026
EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Florida. A U.S. Air Force F-16 modified with an autonomy kit has begun in-flight testing with an artificial intelligence (AI) agent controlling the aircraft, the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency announced in a statement.
The aircraft is one of several F-16s converted into autonomous-capable test platforms under the Viper Experimentation and Next-generation Operations Model (VENOM) program, a joint effort involving the U.S. Air Force and DARPA, the statement reads.
The VENOM Autonomy Kit connects with the aircraft’s flight controls and mission systems without changing the F-16’s core software, DARPA says. A pilot remains in the cockpit and can switch between human and AI control during testing.
The flights build on earlier work involving the X-62A Variable In-flight Simulator Test Aircraft, which was used to test an AI agent during simulated air-combat scenarios, according to the statement.
VENOM aircraft will support DARPA’s Artificial Intelligence Reinforcements program, which will evaluate multiple AI agents during live-flight tests. Future experiments are expected to include multi-aircraft operations and support development related to Collaborative Combat Aircraft programs, the agency states.
