The United States Navy is advancing next-generation air combat by training its F-35 Lightning II pilots to control drones using touchscreen tablets inside the cockpit. The initiative marks a major step toward manned-unmanned teaming, allowing fighter jets to command multiple UAVs during high-risk missions.
Tablet-based drone control
Pilots are learning to operate and task drones through intuitive touchscreen interfaces, reducing workload and improving real-time battlefield coordination.
Manned-unmanned teaming concept
The F-35 will act as a “quarterback in the sky,” directing unmanned systems for surveillance, electronic warfare, and strike support.
Enhanced situational awareness
Data from drones will be streamed directly into the aircraft’s mission systems, giving pilots a wider and safer combat picture.
Reduced risk in contested zones
Using UAVs for forward operations allows the stealth fighter to stay at safer stand-off distances while still controlling the fight.
Future air combat strategy
The program supports the Pentagon’s push toward network-centric warfare where crewed aircraft and autonomous systems operate as a single combat unit.
Technology and training integration
The tablet solution is designed to be modular, enabling rapid upgrades without major cockpit redesigns.
