Vector Motion Parameter Estimation for an Approaching Missile Based on an Extended-Target Model

Vector motion parameter estimation plays a crucial role in evaluating missile performance. In the past, missiles were typically assumed to be point targets, to simplify modeling and calculation of these parameters, due to the limitations of equipment measurement accuracy. However, with the improvements to missile strike accuracy, more accurate vector motion parameter estimation techniques are required. The development of such techniques is made possible by the increased precision of modern measurement equipment. This paper proposes an extended-target vector motion parameter estimation method, based on traditional point-target estimation, which uses the Doppler frequency, and phase differences due to the localized scattering center. Because flying missiles have an attitude angle, we also consider this parameter, based on the use of an extended-target model. The results of simulations with the proposed method reveal significant improvements to parameter estimation accuracy in contrast to the results obtained with the conventional point-target method.