Analytical models for penetration mechanics: A Review

•Analytical penetration models, including assumptions and results, are reviewed.•Applicability and limitations of penetration models are highlighted.

A review of analytical penetration models has been conducted and summarized. Models include the Poncelet equation, hydrodynamic theory, modified hydrodynamic theory, Recht-Ipson, Tate-Alekseevskii, cavity expansion, Ravid-Bodner, Walker-Anderson, and similitude modeling. These models describe, depending upon assumptions, rigid-body penetration, eroding penetration, steady-state and transient penetration, and perforation. Model assumptions are highlighted, and examples are provided of model predictions against experimental data. The manuscript has 30 figures, many of which compare model results to experimental data; 59 reference citations are included.