Three-Dimensional Optimal Homing Guidance Without Terminal Maneuverability Advantage

This paper investigates the three-dimensional (3-D) homing guidance problem of intercepting an evasive target with maneuverability comparable to the missile. The guidance problem is first reformulated in the relative frame to help geometrically derive the necessary condition of interception without terminal maneuverability advantage in the 3-D space. A two-stage optimal guidance law is then analytically derived with bounded acceleration to satisfy the aforementioned necessary condition. Theoretical analysis is performed to interpret the working principle and physical meaning of the proposed law. The key feature of the proposed approach lies in its fast convergence rate and low acceleration requirement. Hence, in comparison with the existing optimal approaches, the proposed law can significantly improve the operational margin and decrease the risk of command saturation in the endgame. Extensive simulations are performed to support our findings.