Saab and Helsing have successfully completed the first three test flights with the AI agent Centaur integrated into the Gripen E multirole fighter. The tests were carried out under Saab’s “Project Beyond” initiative and mark a key milestone in applying artificial intelligence to operational combat aircraft.
The first flight took place on May 28; the third, on June 3, focused on complex Beyond Visual Range (BVR) scenarios, with Centaur operating against a real Gripen D aircraft.
AI in the Loop – Onboard a Fully Operational Fighter
The Centaur AI system was allowed to take tactical control during the flights, autonomously performing manoeuvres in a BVR environment and cueing the pilot for engagement. The test series evaluated the AI’s performance under varied conditions, including degraded communications and shifting engagement geometry.
Rapid Integration Without Special Test Platforms
Thanks to the flexible architecture of Gripen E, the software was fully integrated and flown on an operational aircraft—without the need for an experimental testbed or restricted military range.
“This is a practical demonstration of how fast and safely we can bring new capability to the fighter through software,” said Peter Nilsson, Head of Advanced Programmes at Saab Aeronautics.
Part of Sweden’s Future Fighter Systems Concept
Project Beyond is funded by the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV) and forms part of Sweden’s broader Concept programme for next-generation fighter systems. Saab and Helsing will continue training the AI and expanding its capabilities through additional flights later this year.
By: Katerina Urbanova
Source: Saab
Photo Credit: SAAB
