AI in Chinese Air Combat Can Provide Explanations for its Actions

Artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing modern warfare, with countries like Israel and China leading the way in developing combat AI systems. Israel’s Fire Factory AI plans airstrikes to support military operations, while China’s latest air combat AI can explain its decisions and improve as it engages in more conflicts.

The Chinese air combat AI works through deep reinforcement learning, where good behaviors are promoted and bad ones are penalized. Unlike traditional AI systems that operate like a “black box,” the Chinese AI system developed by Zhang Dong from Northwestern Polytechnical University in Xian builds models to explain strategies and intentions, making the decision-making process more transparent.

On the other hand, the United States has also made significant strides in AI technology for aerial combat. An AI piloted the X-62A VISTA aircraft in a dogfight scenario against a human-operated F-16 aircraft, showcasing the capabilities of AI in combat situations.

The USAF described the encounter as involving defensive maneuvers before transitioning to offensive engagements, with the dogfighting aircraft getting as close as 2,000 feet at 1,200 miles per hour.

Overall, the advancements in AI technology are reshaping the future of defense strategies for countries worldwide. Understanding the latest trends and developments in AI is crucial as it continues to play a significant role in modern warfare.