Nonlinear Adaptive Estimation to Enhance Interceptor Lethality

We anticipate that the combination of flight proven neural network adaptive control, recently developed methods for nonlinear adaptive guidance, and innovative new methods for nonlinear adaptive estimation can be applied, separately or, perhaps ultimately in combination, to produce never before achieved levels of lethality for intercept of future maneuvering targets. During Phase I we will focus exclusively on demonstrating in a representative simulation the improvements attainable through enhanced target tracking. The work will be transitioned to a high-fideltiy simulation environment in the phase I option. In phase II, the work in adaptive estimation will be expanded and compared with improvements obtained through application of adaptive guidance. By leveraging concurrent university research and theoretical development, the team will also pursue in phase II an integrated design approach that includes an appropriate combination of nonlinear adaptive guidance, control and estimation. The phase II effort will ultimately demonstrate the benefits of the developed technology in high-fidelity real-time hardware-in-the-loop simulation through collaboration with an industry partner.