Yes, we do have an increasing amount of automation in our planes. However that automation is mainly a tool for human beings and is not able to replace them
Really now, how does automation not replace the human function? It has so far cut the FE out of a job (fact)!
As far as UAV's and military ops go the reliability has only gotten better and the attitude/environment of ground operated UAV's with people on board would be much different. I can see pilots working shifts on the ground handling several aircraft, only having to actually fly in an adverse condition.