Interceptor Trajectory Prediction Algorithm Using Different Gaussian Processes

Intelligence advancements have significantly escalated the challenges in flight vehicle engagement, particularly in penetration-interception games. To address the issue of unknown interceptor models, we propose a Gaussian process-based interceptor trajectory prediction algorithm. By incorporating the evader's maneuver trajectories, this algorithm promises to greatly improve the evaluation of penetration effectiveness. We investigate the application of various Gaussian process models and identify advantageous scenarios for exact and sparse variational models. The simulation results demonstrate that these models achieve accurate predictions within their advantageous scenarios, which will provide valuable references for penetration strategy evaluation. Copyright (c) 2025 The Authors. This is an open access article under the CC BY-NC-ND license (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/)