In this article:
X-62 VISTA to be upgraded with advanced radar and sensor integration
The US Air Force Test Pilot School (TPS), part of the 412th Test Wing at Edwards Air Force Base, is actively working on the next phase of development for the X-62 Variable Stability In-flight Simulator Test Aircraft (VISTA). Enabled by a strategic investment from the Test Resource Management Center (TRMC), the aircraft is currently undergoing a comprehensive Mission Systems Upgrade (MSU) that will expand its role in providing test infrastructure for modern autonomy testing.
Building on DARPA’s Air Combat Evolution program—where the aircraft achieved a historic milestone by engaging in the first-ever human versus AI dogfight—the upgrade will enable X-62 to evaluate integration of combat systems and collaboration with airborne agents in increasingly complex environments.
As explained by Chase Kohler in the article X-62 VISTA begins upgrade program, expanding boundaries in flight testing of autonomy and artificial intelligence, this represents a crucial leap in the ability to test in operationally relevant environments. TRMC’s upgrades will allow X-62 to incorporate advanced radar and sensor integration, pushing the aircraft into more complex scenarios—and will evaluate AI systems integration, collaboration, and make decisions in real time.
A developmental testing sandbox
“As the Air Force expands its exploration of integrating autonomy into air and space operations, the X-62 is the bridge between the historical human-centered approach and tomorrow’s integration of uncrewed combat aviation,” said Col. Maryann Karlen, commandant, Air Force Test Pilot School. “The Mission Systems Upgrade enables X-62 to continue the journey in developing breakthroughs in artificial intelligence and autonomy”.
X-62 provides a developmental testing sandbox that complements other Department of the Air Force investments in autonomy testing within operational environments, such as the ongoing Viper Experimentation and Next-Generation Operations Model (VENOM).
When called upon, leveraging VISTA’s 30 years of demonstrated onboard safety protections, the X-62 can extend its contributions beyond research into live operational development efficiently supporting programs that underpin the Air Force’s next-generation force structure. These include programs with interests in advanced sensor operation & AI sensor data processing, air superiority demonstrations, autonomous collaborative platform capability, and interoperability and resilience across advanced test ecosystems. This multirole adaptability underscores why the X-62 remains a uniquely flexible test platform.
Variable Stability In-flight Simulator Test Aircraft
The TPS Research Division partners across the joint-services, industry, and academia to maintain air and space dominance in a rapidly evolving threat environment. The X-62 VISTA platform offers a unique path for successful collaboration while simultaneously enhancing TPS’ Educational Mission.
The X-62A VISTA is a one-of-a-kind training aircraft developed by Lockheed Martin Skunk Works in collaboration with Calspan Corporation for the USAF TPS. Built on open systems architecture, VISTA is fitted with software that allows it to mimic the performance characteristics of other aircraft.
VISTA is a modified F-16D Block 30 Peace Marble Il aircraft upgraded with Block 40 avionics. Previously designated NF-16D, in June 2021 VISTA was recognized by the USAF and deemed a national asset with a formal redesignation to VISTA X-62A.
Originally conceived as a highly adaptable flying testbed, the X-62 has evolved into a cornerstone of the Air Force’s pursuit of artificial intelligence integration in military aviation. Building upon its legacy as a platform for thrust vectoring, variable stability, advanced control laws, and inflight simulation, the aircraft is now a central venue for testing how AI can transform tactical and networked air combat.
Photo credit: Lindsey Iniguez / U.S. Air Force
