Enhancing HTK Lethality Modeling Tools

Existing Core simulation models used for defense development and evaluation fail to accurately model lethality for many standoff engagement options such as the use of multiple projectiles and thus cannot validly drive new defense technology development. This program will develop new physics-based computer models for incorporation into existing Core Lethality Models to increase simulation functionality and better predict missile defense strategy effectiveness. This will assist the development of emerging weapon systems tasked to neutralize enemy missile attack threats. The proposed models to be developed will allow simulation of impacts by multiple projectiles and the effects of Fragment Flood Loading (FFL) during impacts in trial interaction scenarios between new candidate standoff engagement lethality enhancing concepts and attacking missiles. Phase I will develop State-of-the-Art FFL models, validate them against known data, and create a simulation tool for modeling the impact, penetration, debris generation and motion, and sympathetic effects such as component failure, fuel loss, and energetic material reaction for multiple projectiles such as targeted by standoff kinetic missile engagement to determine the resultant engagement lethality. This will allow rapid screening, development, and optimization of potential alternative lethality enhancing configurations not adequately covered by existing simulations models such as PEELS.