Firing Efficiency of Anti-Aircraft Missile Complex “Strila-10” in Target Detection Through the Optical Visor and Automated Target Pointer

Abstract

When preparing for and conducting combat operations of the “SA-13 Gopher” anti-aircraft missile system, commanders and combat personnel of the system must know the missile firing efficiency indicators [1–4]. As an indicator of missile firing efficiency, the probability of hitting a target with one missile is usually used. Massive homing is carried out via the contrast channel or the infrared channel of the missile homing head. Under various conditions of use, it is necessary to evaluate the detection ranges that are realised and the probability of timely target detection, launch range and missile launch probability. It is also necessary to imagine the possible values of the inclined distances to the far edge of the kill zone of the complex. The probability of hitting a target with a single missile is affected by the geometric dimensions of the targets, their colour and contrast in the infrared wavelength range, the presence of target designation, meteorological range of visibility etc.
 The task of determining the firing efficiency of the “SA-13 Gopher” anti-aircraft missile system when detecting targets through the optical sight and automated targeting is therefore relevant and important.
 Research presented in the published [1–4; 12–13] do not allow determining the value of the probability of hitting different air targets in various conditions of the complex’s use. This literature provides only general approaches to solving this problem for typical conditions of use of an anti-aircraft missile system. A numerical modeling technique for determining the firing efficiency indicator in the form of values of the probability of hitting targets by a missile has been developed. The modeling took into account the speed of the targets, their plane in the shooting picture, their radiating capabilities and meteorological visibility range, the quality of the combat work of the operators of the combat vehicle, the sun exposure and the closing angles of the combat vehicle. Found possible detection ranges and detection probabilities of a typical target and a small unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV). A high probability of the operator of a combat vehicle missing a typical target at low and medium flight altitudes was noted. Considered launch ranges of missiles that are implemented and the probability of launching a missile when targets are captured in the contrast and infrared channels of the homing head. The largest inclined ranges to the far boundary of the zone of damage of the complex were calculated. The values of the probability of hitting a typical target and UAV in various firing conditions are determined. Sufficient firing efficiency has been proven when capturing and launching a missile in the contrast guidance channel and firing at a typical target. A comparison of the contrast and infrared channels of the homing missile head when firing at UAVs was carried out. Analytical expressions for the calculation of missile firing efficiency indicators and corresponding graphic material are presented.