Skyborg

Skyborg is an autonomy architecture under development by the United States Air Force designed to integrate artificial intelligence (AI) into uncrewed combat aerial vehicles (UCAVs). The program aims to create "loyal wingman" drones capable of flying alongside manned aircraft, augmenting their capabilities, and reducing the risk to human pilots.

The Skyborg system is not a specific drone platform but rather a suite of hardware and software designed to be adaptable to a variety of aircraft. The core of Skyborg lies in its AI pilot, which is intended to learn and adapt to changing mission parameters and threats. It's meant to handle tasks such as flight control, navigation, and sensor management, freeing up human pilots to focus on higher-level decision-making and tactical engagements.

The primary goals of the Skyborg program include:

• Increased Combat Mass: By pairing manned aircraft with relatively inexpensive and expendable Skyborg-equipped drones, the Air Force aims to increase the overall combat power available in any given engagement.
• Risk Reduction: Skyborg drones can be deployed in high-risk environments, absorbing enemy fire and performing dangerous tasks that would otherwise put human pilots at risk.
• Enhanced Pilot Capabilities: Skyborg drones can act as force multipliers, providing pilots with enhanced situational awareness, advanced sensor data, and additional firepower.
• Accelerated Decision Making: The AI-powered autonomy of Skyborg aims to enable faster and more effective decision-making in complex combat scenarios.

The development of Skyborg faces several challenges, including ensuring the reliability and safety of autonomous systems, addressing ethical concerns related to AI in warfare, and maintaining secure communication and control between manned aircraft and UCAVs. The program is ongoing, with continued testing and development of the Skyborg autonomy core system.