Homing Missile Guidance and Estimation for Three-Dimensional Intercept

A new algorithm for homing missile guidance and estimation in the three-dimensional intercept problem is proposed using the assumption that certain targets execute evasive maneuvers orthogonal to their velocity vectors. This is based on the notion that the target acceleration vector difiuses on a sphere with unknown magnitude and orientation, which appears to be more rational than the usual Gauss-Markov target model. The algorithm is the integration of a fllter in cascade with a guidance law. First, the target model is derived in which the target acceleration vector is assumed to be orthogonal to the target velocity vector and its magnitude and bank angle rate are constant. Then, the fllter is derived based on the target model to estimate the relative target-to-interceptor position and velocity and the target acceleration. Finally, the associated guidance law is derived by minimizing a quadratic performance index that includes the terminal miss and interceptor maneuverability subject to the assumed engagement dynamics.