Artificial Intelligence-based Instructors for Chinese Trainer Jets

China's future fighter jets could feature artificial intelligence (AI) based instructors to improve cadets’ learning.

A virtual tactical training system (to be installed on future trainer jets) could be used to enhance pilot's skill in short, mid and long-range combat missions, said Zhang Hong, chief designer of the L15 trainer jet aircraft and general manager of Hongdu Aviation Industry Group which is building the aircraft.

 "With the development of AI technologies, we will be able to identify different habits each pilot has in flying. By managing them, we will let the pilots grow more safely and gain more combat capabilities in the future," Zhang said in a report quoted to his interview in China Central Television (CCTV).

The system can also be linked with simulators on the ground or other fighter jets, aiming to train the real tactical capabilities of future fighter jet pilots, Zhang said, stressing that real and simulated training will be interconnected.

A virtual tactical training system (VTTS) was being developed which could be used to enhance pilot's skill in short, mid and long-range combat missions, said Zhang.

AI technologies could potentially be used to analyze pilot cadets' flying records and moves in real time, compare them with an optimal scenario and give feedback to the cadets.

The VTTS could act like a human instructor in teaching pilot cadets, but would be able to notice more details in the cadets' movements and give more scientific and concrete analysis for the cadets to refer to, the expert said, noting that AI, together with human instructors, could help pilot cadets train much faster.