Booz Allen Demos AI-Based Copilot Algorithm on USAF’s U-2 Aircraft

Booz Allen Hamilton has tested an in-flight algorithm meant to allow artificial intelligence-based copilot capabilities aboard the U.S. Air Force's U-2 Dragon Lady aircraft. 

Jesse Angle, a senior lead technologist at Booz Allen, said in a statement published Wednesday the company worked with the Air Combat Command’s 9th Reconnaissance Wing U-2 Federal Laboratory to develop an algorithm that emulates sensor system control during a training flight activity.

The team modified an open-source reinforcement learning algorithm and developed a web-based pilot interface and two sensor-sharing and control games to enable the deployment of the technology in less than 40 days.

Federal Lab also utilized containerized microservices to yield quick prototype results and enhance system performance.

"This U-2 flight is an important step, demonstrating the ability of AI to work in coordination with highly skilled operators to propel complex missions forward," said Dick Johnson, a senior vice president at Booz Allen and lead of the company's national security business.