
FPP207 - Flying with the Algorithm: AI, Trust, and the F-35
From Fighter Pilot Podcast by E. Vincent "Jell-O" Aiello, Retired U.S. Navy Fighter Pilot
January 23, 2026 · 1h 20m · Episode 207
About this episode
The episode explores the integration of artificial intelligence in the cockpit and its implications for trust and airpower.
What happens when artificial intelligence starts sharing cockpit responsibilities? On this episode, US Air Force Lt Col Raven “Rost” LeClair —F-35 Lightning II test pilot, squadron commander, and autonomy specialist—breaks down how AI is actually being integrated into 5th-generation fighters. We discuss what “human-machine teaming” looks like from the pilot’s seat, how trust in automation is built (and broken), and why the next leap in airpower depends more on judgment, training, and culture than raw hardware. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-fighter-pilot-podcast/donations
People in this episode
Host: E. Vincent "Jell-O" Aiello
Guest: Lt Col Raven “Rost” LeClair
Topics covered
- artificial intelligence
- F-35
- human-machine teaming
- automation
- airpower
- trust in technology
Keywords
- AI
- cockpit responsibilities
- F-35
- human-machine teaming
- automation trust
- airpower
- judgment
- training
- culture
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: US Air Force
Products: F-35 Lightning II
More episodes of Fighter Pilot Podcast
- FPP215 - U-2s on Aircraft Carriers: A Cold War Gamble · June 1, 2026 · 47 min
- FPP214 - Fighting Falcons: VMF-221 and the Soul of Marine Aviation · May 18, 2026 · 1h 4m
- FPP213 - Top Gun, Tomcats, and AI Wingmen: "Yank" Cummings on Tomorrow’s War · May 4, 2026 · 1h 19m
- FPP212 - Four Stars, One Secretary, Zero Ego - Gen. Goldfein & Sec. Wilson on Servant Leadership · April 20, 2026 · 56 min
- FPP211 - The Last Harrier: Inside the Final AV-8B Squadron · April 6, 2026 · 1h 14m
- Artemis II: Back to the Moon! (Rebroadcast) · April 1, 2026 · 48 min
Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the Fighter Pilot Podcast podcast page.