Practice ArticleEstimator design for re-entry targets

- We examine trajectory estimation of maneuvering ballistic targets.
- The design combines input estimation and the extended Kalman filtering technique.
- The design can simultaneously estimate maneuverable acceleration and ballistic coefficient.
- The target acquisition volume of the radar system is precisely characterized.

This study proposes a trajectory estimation scheme for tactical ballistic missiles (TBMs). Target information acquired from the ground-based radar system is investigated by incorporating input estimation (IE) and extended Kalman filtering techniques. In addition to estimate the missile's position and velocity, our special focus is put on the estimation of the TBMs evasive acceleration and ballistic coefficient. In the demonstrative example, radar measurement errors are served as specifications while characterizing the acquirable zone of the ground-based radar system. Effect of the proposed design is fully verified by examining the estimation performance.