The US Air Force has claimed it will have the first of its "Skyborg" drones ready by 2023.
The robot combat devices are being designed as a fusion between artificial intelligence and jet-powered drones. Skyborg drones will have the ability to fly alongside fighter jets in risky missions.
The machines will be more cost-effective than aircraft flown by members of the force, which will allow the Air Force to increase the number of aircraft at a lower cost.
The company or companies that develop different types of Skyborg drones will be paid $400 million, according to Defense News.
The drones will be “attritable”, meaning they will be conceived to execute multiple flights.
The devices are expected to become fully functional in 2023.