Artificial Intelligence Enhances Fighter Pilot Situational Awareness

Lockheed Martin has successfully tested an artificial intelligence feature on its F-35 Lightning fighter, designed to quickly identify unknown contacts for pilots. The system uses machine learning to resolve ID ambiguities and improve situational awareness. According to Breaking Defense, the AI was developed by Lockheed using internal research funding, rather than as part of a specific Air Force contract. This demonstration marks the first time a tactical AI model has been used in flight to generate an independent Combat ID on the pilot’s display.