Did an AI really fly an F-16 fighter jet?
Yes. In July 2026, an AI agent autonomously controlled portions of flight in a modified F-16 at Eglin Air Force Base in Florida as part of DARPA's VENOM program. A human safety pilot remained aboard the aircraft throughout, monitoring performance and ready to intervene if needed.
Answered in
An AI Just Flew a Real F-16 Fighter Jet — Here's What DARPA's VENOM Program Actually DidDARPA's VENOM program put an AI agent in control of a modified F-16 at Eglin Air Force Base, with a safety pilot aboard — a milestone for autonomous flight.
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