Date of Award

10-22-2004

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Department

Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics

First Advisor

David R. Jacques, PhD

Abstract

Autonomous wide area search, classification and attack using Unmanned Combat Air Vehicles (UCAVs) is considered. The wide area search and attack scenario is modeled, capturing important problem parameters related to environment, seeker, and munitions. Probabilistic analysis is used to formulate and analytically solve for various probabilities, including the probability of mission success. Two methods are utilized. The first examines the sub-events required for various events to occur. The second utilizes a Markov chain approach. General expressions are first obtained that are applicable to any assumed a priori distributions of targets and false targets. These expressions are subsequently applied to a multiple warhead munition/UCAV operating in several multiple target/multiple false target scenarios. Examples of application of the analytically derived results are given for all facets of the system design and operation of Wide Area Search Munitions including the evaluation of cooperation schemes and rules of engagement. The problem is formulated as a control problem, and the possibility of adaptive control based on estimation of environmental parameters is examined.

AFIT Designator

AFIT-DS-ENY-05-04

DTIC Accession Number

ADA428082

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