The head of the Royal Air Force has called for a shift toward greater reliance on artificial intelligence (AI) and autonomous systems in future military operations, emphasizing that machines can outperform human pilots in combat. Air Chief Marshal Sir Harv Smyth outlined these views during the Lord Trenchard Memorial Lecture at the Royal United Services Institute, where he detailed plans to integrate AI-powered "collaborative combat aircraft" (CCA) alongside crewed fighter jets like the Typhoon and F-35.

Sir Harv described the rapid advancement of AI technology as “breathtaking,” citing a recent simulation in which AI programs engaged in continuous air-to-air combat training for two weeks—accumulating experience equivalent to 50 years of human pilot training. He argued that machines possess advantages over humans, noting that AI does not suffer from fatigue, loss of consciousness under high G-forces, or mental exhaustion during extended missions. “Simply put, managed correctly, AI can be better than a human,” he said, underscoring the potential for AI and human pilots to work collaboratively.

The RAF chief projected that autonomous fighters would become operational by 2030, with a concept demonstrator expected to fly next year. These uncrewed aircraft are designed to operate at greater distances, keeping crewed jets safer while increasing operational freedom and survivability. Sir Harv described the integration of such technology as a means to enhance military capacity affordably, reframing it as a strategy to multiply force without relying solely on manpower.

He drew parallels to the Allied “steel, not flesh” doctrine from the Second World War, which embraced mechanized advancements to avoid costly trench warfare, and suggested the modern military paradigm should now adopt “autonomy, not flesh.” However, he acknowledged the challenges involved in developing the technology, formulating policy, and securing funding, likening the effort to a complex “5D Jenga” puzzle.

These statements come amid warnings from Defence Secretary Wes Streeting that Britain must be ready for conflict within 1,000 days, as Russia intensifies hybrid warfare tactics against NATO. Streeting has emphasized the importance of preparedness and cooperation with allies, yet detailed plans to meet NATO defense spending targets remain pending ahead of the upcoming government spending review.

Earlier this year, former Defence Secretary John Healey resigned over the Labour Party’s reluctance to increase military funding, and he is expected to announce initial financial commitments toward reaching the NATO target of 3 percent of GDP on defense by 2030. These investments are anticipated to involve increased borrowing and funding through institutions such as the National Wealth Fund and British Business Bank.

Sir Harv stressed that the threats facing NATO allies are no longer distant concerns but immediate challenges warranting urgent attention. His advocacy for AI-driven autonomy highlights a growing belief within British military leadership that future conflicts will demand faster, more resilient, and technologically advanced capabilities.