A preference-ordered discrete-gaming approach to air-combat analysis

An approach to one-on-one air combat analysis is described which employs discrete gaming of a parameterized model featuring choice between several closed-loop control policies. A preference-ordering formulation due to Falco is applied to rational choice between outcomes: win, loss, mutual capture, purposeful disengagement, draw. Approximate optimization is provided by a scheme similar to the "backing up" process of Kopp. The approach is designed primarily for short-duration duels between craft with large-envelope weaponry. Some illustrative computations are presented for an example modeled using constant-Speed vehicles and rough estimation of energy shifts. The paper is being processed for publication in the IEEE Transactions on Automatic Control.