Saab Introduces AI Agents for Future Aircraft Platforms

Saab has introduced a suite of in-house AI agents intended for future aircraft platforms, following tests involving a Gripen E fighter aircraft. Saab says the agents are designed to support tactical decision-making in complex operational settings, working with a cockpit pilot or operating from an uncrewed aircraft.

Key details

• Saab is establishing an AI Fighter Jet Pilot Academy to develop the agents and infrastructure for their creation, training, and evaluation.
• Saab executive Peter Nilsson, head of Advanced Programs at the company’s aeronautics unit, identified making the technology dependable and useful over time as a key challenge.
• Saab has also been developing three unmanned aircraft, identified as A1, A2, and A3, for a future loyal-wingman effort.
• Saab is a partial founder of Sferical AI, a Swedish government-backed initiative focused on computing capacity for AI development.

Saab executive Peter Nilsson said making the technology dependable and useful over time is a key challenge.

Why it matters

Saab’s work brings AI development, simulation, and aircraft design into one effort. The company says the agents could support a pilot in the cockpit or operate from an uncrewed aircraft, while the academy would provide a setting to train and evaluate them.