Autonomous F-16 program advances with modifications, simulations

Photo By Samuel King Jr. | An F-16 Fighting Falcon undergoes modifications as part of the Viper Experimentation and Next-gen Operations Model – Autonomy Flying Testbed program at Eglin Air Force Base, Florida. The changes include software, hardware and instrumentation that will allow the aircraft to fly autonomously. (U.S. Air Force photo by Samuel King Jr.)  

EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, FLORIDA, UNITED STATES

04.02.2025

Story by Samuel King Jr.                 

96th Test Wing

EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. - The last F-16 Fighting Falcon set for autonomous aircraft modification landed April 1. The aircraft marked the final F-16 arrival to be part of the Viper Experimentation and Next-gen Operations Model – Autonomy Flying Testbed program, also known as VENOM.

In a hangar nearby, three of those F-16s are in the VENOM modification process. These adjustments involve software, hardware and instrumentation that will eventually allow the autonomy to fly the aircraft.

A new physical change to the aircraft will be the inclusion of an auto-throttle. This modification allows the autonomy flying VENOM to regulate the flight control surfaces and the thrust.

“Modifying the aircraft is the result of a rigorous design phase and brings us one step closer to testing autonomy on a fighter jet with real mission systems and capabilities,” said Maj. Trent McMullen, the 40th Flight Test Squadron’s advanced capabilities division chief.

• Date Taken: 04.02.2025
• Date Posted: 04.02.2025 11:30
• Story ID: 494370
• Location: EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, FLORIDA, US