#Sweden #Stockholm #Saab #Gripen E #Helsing

Saab's AI Milestone with Gripen E

In a groundbreaking development within the military aviation sector, Saab, in partnership with Helsing, has successfully completed the first three flights incorporating Helsing’s AI agent, Centaur, into its Gripen E fighter jet. This initiative, part of Saab's ambitious `Project Beyond`, aims to significantly enhance the aircraft's operational capabilities through advanced AI integration.

The first of these flights took place on May 28, marking a crucial leap forward in utilizing artificial intelligence within military contexts. With Centaur at the helm, the Gripen E executed highly complex maneuvers autonomously, specifically in a Beyond Visual Range (BVR) combat scenario, demonstrating the potential for AI to not only assist but to take charge of critical combat-related decisions.

Peter Nilsson, head of Advanced Programmes within Saab's Aeronautics Business Area, emphasized the importance of this achievement. He remarked, “This is a significant milestone for Saab, illustrating our qualitative advantage in advanced technologies. The effective integration and operation of Helsing’s AI agent in real flight conditions is a testament to Gripen E’s capability to evolve without compromising safety.”

One of the standout features of Gripen E is its unique architecture, which allows it to conduct test flights with the AI fully integrated, unhindered by the limitations typically associated with military test ranges or the necessity for separate experimental aircraft.

The third flight, which occurred on June 3, concentrated on assessing Centaur's performance against an actual Gripen D aircraft. This involved engaging in various dynamic BVR scenarios, using real-time data to track and analyze target aircraft. Adaptability tests were conducted, which included altering the distance, speed, and flight angles, alongside scenarios where control communications were temporarily disabled. This rigorous testing was crucial for evaluating Centaur's resilience and functionality in unpredictable combat situations.

Saab's and Helsing's collaborative efforts under Project Beyond are dedicated to advancing the capabilities of trustworthy AI against emerging threats. With ongoing analysis of the gathered flight data and further training of Centaur, the project aims to enhance its BVR functionalities. Additional flights are scheduled throughout the year as part of this progressive initiative.

Financed fully by the Swedish Defence Material Administration (FMV), this project aligns with Sweden’s broader ambitions for future fighter systems and underscores the government’s commitment to military innovation.

Saab's ethos revolves around enhancing security and defense through innovative technology. With a workforce of 25,000 dedicated employees, the company prides itself on its cutting-edge systems in aeronautics, weapons, command and control, and underwater systems. Saab’s headquarters is situated in Sweden, where it maintains substantial operations globally, contributing to the domestic defense capabilities of multiple nations.

As the world of military aviation continues to evolve, Saab's integration of AI in the Gripen E highlights the company's leading role in pushing technological boundaries, underscoring its ambition to remain at the forefront of defense solutions while ensuring national and global security is upheld. The successful outcomes from Project Beyond not only signify advancements in military aviation technology but also set a precedent for future innovations in AI applications across various defense sectors.