eglinafb’s 96th Test Wing and 53rd Wing welcomed the first three F-16 Fighting Falcons that will take part in the Viper Experimentation and Next-gen Operations Model – Autonomy Flying Testbed program. VENOM-AFT is designed and funded to accelerate testing of autonomy software on crewed and uncrewed aircraft. VENOM-AFT complements the autonomy data and artificial intelligence experimentation proving ground at Eglin Air Force Base and informs the Collaborative Combat Aircraft program and other autonomy developers. The next step for the VENOM program is to modify the F-16 aircraft into test platforms to rapidly evaluate autonomous capabilities. “The VENOM program marks a pivotal chapter in the advancement of aerial combat capabilities. This transformative program holds the potential to redefine air combat paradigms by fostering novel autonomous functions for current and future crewed and uncrewed platforms,” said Maj. Ross Elder, VENOM developmental test lead. “We look forward to the c...