Version of loitering munitions classification based on the state-of-art and trends analysis
Рубрика:
| 1Zhugan, O, 1Degtyarev, MO 1Yangel Yuzhnoye State Design Office, Dnipro, Ukraine |
| Space Sci. & Technol. 2024, 30 ;(3):31-39 |
| https://doi.org/10.15407/knit2024.03.031 |
| Язык публикации: English |
Аннотация: Loitering munitions are the newest class of weapons that organically complement long-range missile systems, artillery systems, and aviation weapons. According to their design features and performance characteristics, loitering munitions occupy a place between cruise missiles and unmanned aerial vehicles.
Based on the results of the analysis of the characteristics of modern and future loitering munitions, a version of their classification is proposed according to the operating range and typical destruction objectives, in particular, the division of loitering munitions into anti-aircraft munitions and munitions intended for hitting ground targets, while the latter category is additionally divided into tactical, medium-range, and long-range loitering munitions. Technical features, typical munitions, and development trends are given for each category of loitering munitions. The dependence of the loitering munition warhead mass on the launch mass was studied, and the effect of the installed engine type was shown. The dependence of the main engine type on the loitering munition category is identified, which is a determining factor that forms the configuration and performance characteristics of a munition.
An analysis of modern armed conflicts shows that loitering munitions are gaining more and more importance for the successful accomplishment of combat missions. It is shown that depending on the enemy, nature of hostilities, technological and economic capabilities of the parties to the conflict, loitering munitions of different categories can be used. Examples are given of the prominent role of loitering munitions in such conflicts as the current conflict in Yemen and the recent war in Nagorno-Karabakh.
Based on the proposed classification of loitering munitions and the experience of their tactical employment in armed conflicts of the 21st century, a vision was formed for the development of loitering munitions for the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
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| Ключевые слова: armed conflict, loitering munitions, operating range |
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