Defence

Boeing to Develop AI-Powered Lethal Fighter Jets for US Defense

Boeing has embarked on a groundbreaking journey to develop a fleet of lethal, AI-piloted fighter aircraft for the United States military. According to the report, from DailyMail.

These “un-crewed” jets, officially dubbed the MQ-28 Ghost Bats, are designed to operate autonomously, guided by sophisticated artificial intelligence. The ambitious project envisions thousands of these AI-driven aircraft in the skies, sparking both excitement and concern about the implications of such technology.

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Currently, Boeing’s working prototypes of the Ghost Bat, being developed in both the US and Australia, boast impressive capabilities.

At 38 feet in length, each drone can fly more than 2,300 miles and is equipped with artificial intelligence to operate independently. The aircraft also features roughly 53 cubic feet of storage capacity within its nose for interchangeable payloads, allowing it to carry an array of bombs and munitions, including potentially multiple tactical nuclear weapons.

While the Ghost Bats represent a significant leap forward in military technology, critics argue that these plans raise pressing questions about public safety, national security, and the ethical use of taxpayer funds. The concern stems from the potential for machines to select and strike targets without direct human intervention, which could fundamentally change the nature of warfare.

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The Pentagon estimates that each AI-controlled drone will cost approximately $30 million, but the final version is still open to bids from Boeing’s competitors, with a longer timeline extending into 2029 and beyond.

The US Air Force has requested $557 million for the fiscal year 2025 to develop and test its AI fighter program, with the ultimate goal of securing a multibillion-dollar contract to build a fleet of 1,000 AI jets. The urgency behind Boeing’s project stems from the United States’ drive to maintain an edge over China in the race to integrate AI into weapon systems

Defence

Which Country Has the Largest Fleet of Fighter Aircraft?

Fighter planes are crucial for a country’s defense and military strength. They are designed to engage in aerial combat and protect national airspace. Different nations invest heavily in their air forces, leading to varying numbers of fighter jets.

Among them, the United States stands out as the country with the most fighter planes, boasting a diverse fleet equipped with advanced technology. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the fighter jet inventories of different countries, highlighting the significance of air power in modern warfare.

1. United States

The United States Air Force (USAF) ranks first in the world for the largest air force, boasting a total of 13,209 aircraft. Among these, approximately 1,854 are fighter jets, including iconic models like the F-22 Raptor and the F-35 Lightning II. These advanced fighters are essential for air dominance and ground support. The USAF’s fleet also includes various attack aircraft, logistical support planes, and helicopters, making it a cornerstone of American military power.

2. Russia

Holding the second position globally, Russia boasts a formidable fleet of 4,255 aircraft, which includes 809 fighter jets and 730 attack planes. The Russian Air Force operates a diverse range of fighters, such as the Su-57 and MiG-29. These jets are designed for air superiority and ground attack missions, reflecting Russia’s commitment to maintaining a formidable aerial presence.

3. China

In the race for air superiority, China comes in second with 3,304 aircraft. Among these, 1,207 are fighters and bombers.The People’s Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) operates advanced models like the Chengdu J-20 and Shenyang J-11, which are crucial for securing Chinese airspace and engaging in regional conflicts.

4. India

India ranks fourth with an impressive total of 2,296 aircraft, including around 606 fighter jets.The Indian Air Force (IAF) operates a mix of indigenous and imported fighters, such as the Sukhoi Su-30MKI and the Mirage 2000. The IAF plays a vital role in protecting India’s borders and maintaining regional stability.

5. North Korea

South Korea comes in 5th place with a total of 905 aircraft, including approximately 400 fighter jets. The Republic of Korea Air Force (ROKAF) uses advanced models like the F-15K and KF-21 Boramae, enhancing its ability to counter threats from North Korea and maintain air superiority.

6.North Korea ranks sixth, with a total of 947 aircraft, of which around 400 are fighter jets. The Korean People’s Army Air Force primarily operates older models, such as the MiG-15 and MiG-21, which are used for defense and limited offensive capabilities.

7. Pakistan

Pakistan ranks seventh with 820 aircraft, including around 300 fighter jets. The Pakistan Air Force (PAF) operates a mix of fighters, such as the JF-17 Thunder and F-16, which are crucial for national defense and regional security.

8.Egypt: Egypt’s Air Force ranks eighth globally with a fleet of 1,080 aircraft. The Egyptian Air Force (EAF) operates a diverse array of multirole fighters, including the F-16 and Rafale, supported by a robust helicopter fleet. EAF’s ongoing modernization efforts highlight its focus on maintaining regional stability and strengthening its strategic capabilities.
9. Japan

Japan holds the ninth position with the fleet of 1,459 aircraft, underscoring Japan’s focus on air defense and regional security. The Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) operates advanced fighters like the F-35 and Mitsubishi F-2, focusing on air defense and humanitarian missions.

10. Saudi Arabia

Finally, Saudi Arabia ranks tenth with 690 aircraft, including around 300 fighter jets. The Royal Saudi Air Force operates a fleet that includes advanced models like the Eurofighter Typhoon and F-15, playing a significant role in regional security and operations.