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answer: direct
beat: ai-technology
source: 1 article · updated: July 29, 2026
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What missions could AI-enabled fighter jets eventually perform?

Future applications include AI-enabled aircraft flying alongside crewed fighters for reconnaissance, electronic warfare, strike missions, communications relay, or decoy operations under human supervision. The goal is taking on high-risk missions in heavily defended airspace without putting a human pilot at risk.

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An AI Just Flew a Real F-16 Fighter Jet — Here's What DARPA's VENOM Program Actually Did

DARPA'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.

Crashtech Editorial July 29, 2026 How AI Actually Works

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