Using a Multiple-Model Adaptive Estimator in a Random Evasion Missile/Aircraft Encounter

The terminal phase (end game) of an encounter between an air-to-air missile equipped with an active monopulse radar seeker and an evading fighter aircraft, possibly employing electronic countermeasures in the form of electronic jinking, is addressed. The missile uses a guidance law derived from linear differential game theory, which is implemented by using a multiple-model adaptive estimator (MMAE). The MMAE identifies the evasion strategy of the aircraft, which consists of the combination of evasion maneuver and electronic jinking. An extensive numerical study is used to demonstrate the viability of the concept. In comparison with a previously proposed mixed strategy guidance methodology, the new MMAE-based approach leads to a substantial improvement in the guaranteed single-shot kill probability for the missile.