Chinese AI developed to track F-22 and F-35 stealth fighters

Chinese researchers have developed a lightweight artificial intelligence system designed to track fifth-generation stealth aircraft, such as the F-22 Raptor and F-35 Lightning II, by analyzing thermal signatures. The technology aims to overcome the limitations of stealth design, which minimizes radar cross-sections but cannot eliminate the heat generated by jet engines and air friction.

Developed by teams including the Beijing Institute of Technology, the system utilizes a lightweight neural network optimized for the size, weight, and power constraints of missile seekers. In laboratory tests using simulated targets, the system achieved an identification rate of approximately 90% to 97.1%. The AI is specifically trained to distinguish between actual engine exhaust plumes and infrared decoy flares, potentially improving target recognition during high-speed air-to-air engagements.

Lead researcher An Jiangshan noted that full datasets regarding real-world fifth-generation aircraft remain under confidentiality restrictions. The research focuses on integrating these algorithms directly into missile seekers to shift the detection burden from the launch platform to the weapon itself.