Raspberry Pi-Powered AI Beats Human Pilot in Dogfight

artificial intelligence fighter pilot AI dogfight
Retired United States Air Force Colonel Gene Lee, in a flight simulator, takes part in simulated air combat versus artificial intelligence technology developed by a team comprised of industry, U.S. Air Force and University of... Lisa Ventre, University of Cincinnati

When the Raspberry Pi computer was first launched in 2012 to promote the teaching of computer science, its creators probably didn't imagine the $35 device would one day take on a professional fighter pilot in a dogfight—and win.

But that is exactly what a doctoral graduate at the University of Cincinnati set out to do when he built a Pi-powered artificial intelligence pilot. The AI, dubbed ALPHA, went up against retired United States Air Force Colonel Gene Lee in a series of simulated battles, beating Lee in every single engagement.

Lee described ALPHA as "the most aggressive, responsive, dynamic and credible AI I've seen to date."

ALPHA has gone on to defeat other expert fighter pilots in what is being hailed as a significant breakthrough in unmanned flight.

Lee, who has battled AI opponents in simulated environments for more than 30 years, noted that after hours-long sessions with ALPHA, he felt "tired, drained and mentally exhausted," whereas the AI was as sharp as the first battle.

He also noted that it was the first time he had seen an AI consistently beat a human pilot in tests.

"I was surprised at how aware and reactive it was," Lee said. "It seemed to be aware of my intentions and reacting instantly to my changes in flight and missile deployment. It knew how to defeat the shot I was taking. It moved instantly between defensive and offensive actions as needed.

"You might have gotten shot down once in awhile by an AI program when you, as a pilot, were trying something new. But, until now, an AI opponent simply could not keep up with anything like the real pressure and pace of combat-like scenarios."

raspberry pi artificial intelligence AI
Two Raspberry Pi computers in London, July 8, 2013. The $35 British microcomputer sold almost 1.5 million units in its first 18 months, powering devices from robots to phones. MONA BOSHNAQ/AFP/Getty Images

Nick Ernest, the doctoral graduate behind ALPHA, now hopes to continue developing the AI as the CEO and president of the firm Psibernetix.

It is thought that future versions of ALPHA could be used in actual combat situations as an AI wingman to formulate tactical plans and lessen the likelihood of mid-air mistakes.

Kelly Cohen, an aerospace professor at the University of Cincinnati, said: "ALPHA would be an extremely easy AI to cooperate with and have as a teammate. ALPHA could continuously determine the optimal ways to perform tasks commanded by its manned wingman, as well as provide tactical and situational advice to the rest of its flight."

Uncommon Knowledge

Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.

Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.

About the writer


Anthony Cuthbertson is a staff writer at Newsweek, based in London.  

Anthony's awards include Digital Writer of the Year (Online ... Read more

To read how Newsweek uses AI as a newsroom tool, Click here.

Newsweek cover
  • Newsweek magazine delivered to your door
  • Newsweek Voices: Diverse audio opinions
  • Enjoy ad-free browsing on Newsweek.com
  • Comment on articles
  • Newsweek app updates on-the-go
Newsweek cover
  • Newsweek Voices: Diverse audio opinions
  • Enjoy ad-free browsing on Newsweek.com
  • Comment on articles
  • Newsweek app updates on-the-go