US Defense Tests AI‑Enabled X‑62 VISTA and Modified MH‑60R Seahawk

Lockheed Martin and the U.S. Department of Defense reported progress on two AI‑driven flight‑test programs. The X‑62 VISTA, a modified F‑16D operating from Edwards Air Force Base, has completed trials under the "Have Heat" and "Have Holidays" projects, demonstrating real‑time AI target detection against a T‑38C trainer and testing enhanced safety‑procedure software. The next phase will integrate the RTX PhantomStrike radar system, with potential future adoption in production aircraft.

During the 2026 RIMPAC exercise, the U.S. Navy and Lockheed Martin conducted practical trials of two MH‑60R Seahawk helicopters equipped with the AI‑based SensorMAX algorithm. The system expands hydrolocation capability from four to eight buoys, improving underwater threat detection and operator situational awareness. Additional upgrades, such as a magnetic anomaly detector and a new electro‑optical targeting pod, were also demonstrated, supporting export interest from several allied nations.