"Air Force Secretary to Test AI-Operated F-16 Fighter Jet"
Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall plans to test an AI-operated F-16 converted for drone flight, aiming to observe the technology behind the future fleet of more than 1,000 autonomously operated drones. The fleet, designed for future warfare and potential conflict with China, is envisioned to provide support in various missions and be cheaper than developing new manned jets, with each drone costing about $20 million.