The U.S. Air Force is investing in a new frontier of drone technology. Researchers aim to build smarter mini-drones that think like humans. These next-generation flying machines will use brain-inspired chips that save power and boost performance.
Traditional AI is powerful but extremely energy-hungry. Large drones can handle this with engines, but small ones cannot. Mini-drones rely only on batteries, which limits flight time. Using today’s AI tech, a small drone’s flight can drop from 45 minutes to just four.
To solve this, a team led by Dr. Suin Yi at the University of Texas is working on a solution. Backed by the Air Force Office of Scientific Research, the project is part of the 2025 Young Investigator Program. Their mission is clear: build smarter mini-drones that think like humans.
They plan to create an AI chip smaller than a grain of rice. Yet, this tiny chip will support advanced AI tasks. These include object detection, autonomous navigation, and smart decision-making.
This energy-efficient chip will rely on neuromorphic computing. Unlike traditional AI, this tech mimics the human brain. It uses conducting polymer thin films, a material that is light and flexible. This method allows the chip to activate only when needed. As a result, it saves energy and boosts drone endurance.
Neuromorphic computing isn’t new, but it remains experimental. Scientist Carver Mead first introduced the concept in the 1980s. However, only recently has it started to show real promise. For example, Intel launched the Hala Point neuromorphic computer in 2024. This new system runs 50 times faster than traditional AI setups.
Over the next three years, Yi’s team hopes to make a breakthrough. Their work could allow smarter mini-drones that think like humans to fly longer, work better, and make faster decisions. These drones could play key roles in surveillance, rescue, and even combat missions.
With support from the U.S. Air Force, these researchers are shaping the future of military technology. If successful, their work could launch a new era of intelligent machines — starting with smarter mini-drones that think like humans.
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