The sixth-generation fighter jet programs, epitomized by Russia’s Su-57, the People’s Liberation Army Air Force’s Chengdu J-20 Mighty Dragon, and the US Air Force’s Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) program, stand as the pinnacle of military prowess. These NGAD fighter jets boast stealthy, tailless designs with twin engines ingeniously concealed within the fuselage, strategically dispersing exhaust over the upper section of the jet to evade detection by ground sensors.
Tailored for 2 distinct theaters of operation — a long-range variant optimized for the Indo-Pacific and a shorter-range counterpart tailored for Europe — the NGAD jets integrate groundbreaking features to support extended and mentally demanding missions. Notably, the pilot’s seat adopts a reclined posture and incorporates sophisticated sensors to monitor the pilot’s physical state, thus bolstering operational endurance and safety.
A linchpin of the NGAD initiative lies in the integration of collaborative combat aircraft (CCA) — AI-driven drones affectionately dubbed “loyal wingmen.” These drones, under the command of NGAD combat pilots, undertake a spectrum of missions, ranging from precision strikes to intelligence gathering and electronic warfare. Crucially, CCAs are engineered to be notably more cost-effective than conventional fighter jets, thereby enhancing operational reach while mitigating financial strains associated with traditional fleets.
To increase dynamic task execution and adaptability, the NGAD program leverages AI-driven systems like the Skyborg initiative, ushering in a transformative era of air combat strategies. However, a notable challenge remains in designing the autonomous core of CCA drones to prevent fighter pilots from being inundated with the responsibilities of directing and guiding these assets during missions.
Beyond the realm of military aviation, parallel advancements in medical technology have witnessed the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into surgical procedures, promising heightened precision and improved outcomes in the operating room. In this issue, we explore technologies being implemented in retina, from retinal prostheses to the digital operating room, exploring how AI and augmented reality are revolutionizing surgical practices. In addition, we explore the use of virtual reality and AI to assist individuals with low vision — a technology that has long found utility in the realm of fighter aircraft. We also delve into the concept of meetings in the metaverse, envisioning a future where such technologies enrich our professional landscape.
In contrast to the military domain, the integration of AI in health care requires meticulous regulatory scrutiny and ethical considerations, with an emphasis on patient safety and data privacy. Despite the inherent challenges, the convergence of AI with aviation and health care heralds an era of unprecedented innovation and transformation across both sectors, promising a future defined by enhanced capabilities and improved outcomes. RP
