US Air Force and Navy Test AI Wingman for Combat Flights

Written by Aaron S.,

Editor-In-Chief

Last Updated: August 26, 2025

Key Takeaways

US fighter jets used Raft AI’s Starsage system for real-time mission guidance instead of relying solely on humans in a recent military test;
Starsage provided each pilot with a personalized AI assistant to manage flight plans, weapons systems, and in-air decisions faster;
The AI cross-checked mission readiness and sent digital updates to commanders, which reduced the need for radio communication.

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In a recent US military exercise, fighter jet crews received in-flight directions from an artificial intelligence (AI) system instead of relying solely on human support.

According to an August 26 report by Fox News, the trial was organized by both the US Air Force and Navy. They used a system called Starsage, built by Raft AI, during joint tests involving F-16, F/A-18, and F-35 fighter jets.

This exercise focused on testing how AI could help manage weapons, communications, and mission planning.

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Traditionally, pilots are guided by air battle managers who stay on the ground and keep track of radar feeds, intelligence updates, and aircraft positioning. These managers act like air traffic controllers, but in a military setting.

Raft AI’s Starsage system takes that same role but gives each pilot their own dedicated AI assistant.

Raft AI’s CEO, Shubhi Mishra, described the system as a one-on-one tool that offers faster and more accurate support than current methods. She said pilots can now receive tailored information in seconds, rather than waiting minutes.

According to Mishra, Starsage improves decision-making by processing mission data and reacting without delays.

During the test, pilots confirmed their readiness with Starsage, which then checked that the required aircraft were airborne and prepared for the mission. The AI cross-referenced the information with simulated radar feeds and mission objectives.

Once everything matched, the system notified higher command units through digital updates, which reduced the need for constant radio calls.

A recent report from Cox Business explored how Gen Z and millennials use AI at work. What did it reveal? Read the full story.