Amidst planned upgrades, the U.S. Air Force Test Pilot School’s Research Division simultaneously executed two accelerated test programs, HAVE HEAT and HAVE HOLIDAYS, utilizing the X-62 VISTA here throughout April 2026. Driven by the Test Resource Management Center’s X-62 Mission Systems Upgrades (MSU), these latest milestones reflect continued emphasis on the safe acceleration of artificial intelligence and autonomy capabilities for the warfighter. HAVE HEAT: Autonomous AI sensor-to-vehicle control Leveraging https://news.lockheedmartin.com/2026-08-04-Skunk-Works-R-Advances-Sensor-Powered-AI-Fighter-Intercept, the X-62 VISTA platform demonstrated the ability of AI agents to ingest live infrared sensor data, directing the X-62 to autonomously intercept an airborne target in real time. “HAVE HEAT represents a meaningful expansion of avionics capability towards integrated, AI-driven control of multiple sensors and air vehicles for mission autonomy. This bridges a capability gap and positions us to test advanced autonomy faster,” says Lt. Col. Joshua Strafaccia, dean of faculty for research, U.S. Air Force Test Pilot School. HAVE HOLIDAYS: Integrating framework required for advanced technology evaluation In parallel, HAVE HOLIDAYS saw simultaneous integration and evaluation of a wide suite of modular technologies into the X-62’s Enterprise Open Mission System Architecture computer. This included the integration of a non-prime, third-party autonomous agent onto the X-62, testing of enhanced safety rules to prevent autonomous vehicles from violating user-established operational limits, and further chip integration for advanced sensor exploitation. This system-of-systems test served as critical technical risk mitigation on the design and development of logistics and integration frameworks required to maximize flight opportunities post-MSU, paving the way for broader government, academic, and industry partnerships. Preparing for X-62 VISTA’s future All ground testing across the blended team of military, government and contractor engineers was completed within three months, with HAVE HEAT and HAVE HOLIDAYS executed in parallel under compressed timelines. The swift execution of both test campaigns proves X-62’s suitability for rapid