The Wiki article is a gross oversimplification of TF modes. Yes, there is Auto Coupled TF where the computers fly the plane without human intervention according to predetermined ride limits. Even in this case on some airplanes it's still not fully computer controlled, i.e. the F-15E does not have an auto throttle capability and can't increase/decrease thrust without pilot input.
Many fighters also have Manual TF where the TF system provides steering information on the HUD and other displays and the pilot flies accordingly. The system can see far enough ahead to give the pilot adequate decision time. Obviously higher (500-1000 feet) gives more reaction time, but the aircraft can be flown down to 100' depending on terrain. This method is preferred by many pilots as it offers the best of both worlds, computer guidance with the ability to manually override.
Auto and Man TF both have a flyup mode which can be armed which will cause the aircraft to automatically initiate a pull up if the system fails or detects impending flight into terrain. This has itâ(TM)s own risks, the last thing you want to do is to have a computer glitch ( cause by flying over a small lake) cause you to pop up while youâ(TM)re on a bombing run into Pyongyang, right into multiple SA-2 fields of view.
Entering TF ( either auto or manual) is going to depend heavily on what's kind of terrain you're flying over; real life isn't Airwolf,flying through the Rockies at full speed. Despite the best computers in the world if you choose to do it in an environment outside your aircraft's limits you will die.
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I'll see your three words and raise you two.... Jesus lied.
The Wiki article is a gross oversimplification of TF modes. Yes, there is Auto Coupled TF where the computers fly the plane without human intervention according to predetermined ride limits. Even in this case on some airplanes it's still not fully computer controlled, i.e. the F-15E does not have an auto throttle capability and can't increase/decrease thrust without pilot input. Many fighters also have Manual TF where the TF system provides steering information on the HUD and other displays and the pilot flies accordingly. The system can see far enough ahead to give the pilot adequate decision time. Obviously higher (500-1000 feet) gives more reaction time, but the aircraft can be flown down to 100' depending on terrain. This method is preferred by many pilots as it offers the best of both worlds, computer guidance with the ability to manually override. Auto and Man TF both have a flyup mode which can be armed which will cause the aircraft to automatically initiate a pull up if the system fails or detects impending flight into terrain. This has itâ(TM)s own risks, the last thing you want to do is to have a computer glitch ( cause by flying over a small lake) cause you to pop up while youâ(TM)re on a bombing run into Pyongyang, right into multiple SA-2 fields of view. Entering TF ( either auto or manual) is going to depend heavily on what's kind of terrain you're flying over; real life isn't Airwolf,flying through the Rockies at full speed. Despite the best computers in the world if you choose to do it in an environment outside your aircraft's limits you will die.
TFA said it was designed to work with the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter now in production which does in fact have a pilot.