General Dynamics X-62A VISTA

USAF TPS, 86-0048, Edwards AFB, CA, Project Skyborg 2023

2 x AIM-120 (wing tip), 1 x AIM-9x, 1 x ACMI pod, 1 center fuel tank

Hobby Master 1:72 HA38042B

The X-62A VISTA (Variable Stability In-flight Simulator Test Aircraft) is operated by the U.S. Air Force Test Pilot School and maintained by Calspan at Edwards Air Force Base. It is regularly used in student curriculum sorties, special academic projects, and flight research. As of June 2021, VISTA is in the midst of upgrading. In addition to replacing the VISTA Simulation System (VSS) with a newer, upgraded version of the same system, a System for Autonomous Control of Simulation (SACS) will be added in order to operate X-62A as a Skyborg. One application is as autonomously piloted aircraft, perhaps as a robotic wingman to a manned aircraft.

On 18 April 2024, the USAF and DARPA announced the successful engagement of the X-62A against a conventional, human piloted F-16 in the first-ever human vs artificial intelligence dogfight. On May 2, Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall III said he'd trust the AI with the ability to launch weapons. The Air Force is planning for more than 1,000 AI-controlled warplanes, the first of them to be operating by 2028.

General Dynamics X-62A VISTA
Derived from the F-16D Fighting Falcon, the X-62A VISTA (Variable Stability In-flight Simulator Test Aircraf that was modified as a joint venture between General Dynamics and Calspan for use by the United States Air Force). Originally designated NF-16D, the aircraft was redesignated X-62A in June 2021 as part of an upgrade to a Skyborg, with System for Autonomous Control of Simulation (SACS)

Hobby Master "1:72 Air Power Series" diecast airplanes feature:

• Molded metal construction with plastic components.
• Realistic panel lines, antennas, access panels and surface details.
• Inscriptions and posters printed with a stamp that do not fade or fall off like decals.
• opening of awnings, revealing detailed within the cockpit.
• Extended / retracted interchangeable landing gear.
• Display stand to display the aircraft "in flight".
• Authentic detachable artillery cargoes complete with placards.