Dassault Tests AI Algorithms on Rafale Fighter Jet
The trials could feed into future Rafale upgrades as defense companies test greater use of AI in combat aircraft.
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Dassault Aviation has flight-tested two artificial intelligence algorithms aboard its Rafale fighter jet, bringing the technology closer to possible use in future upgrades of the French combat aircraft.
One algorithm was developed internally by Dassault engineers, while the second was created with French defense technology group Thales through its cortAIx AI unit, the company said on Tuesday.
Dassault disclosed few details about what the algorithms did during the flights. It said the work is part of an effort to introduce controlled and supervised AI into the cockpit while keeping the human crew in command.
“They have reached a level of maturity that makes them eligible for future Rafale upgrades,” Dassault said.
Running AI aboard a fighter aircraft presents different constraints from cloud-based systems. Dassault said the work requires reliable operational data, including real and simulated information, as well as models that can operate with limited computing resources inside an aircraft.
The tests come as military aircraft makers increasingly explore AI for tasks such as assisting pilots with decision-making and coordinating crewed fighters with autonomous aircraft.
Saab has previously tested AI aboard its Gripen E fighter against a human pilot, while the US Air Force demonstrated a modified F-16 equipped with machine-learning technology in 2024.
India is also expanding its Rafale fleet, having ordered 26 carrier-based Rafale-M aircraft for the Navy in 2025 in addition to the 36 Rafales already operated by the Air Force.
The Rafale trials also come as France reassesses its future combat-aircraft plans following the collapse this year of its joint next-generation fighter project with Germany.
Dassault has said it could develop a future fighter independently while remaining open to new partnerships.
