Estimation of the accuracy of laser guided bomb

The main goal of the bomb release is to hit the target with a maximum accuracy. Therefore, special active control systems are utilized to improve this accuracy. Some of the most popular are semi-active laser systems of guidance. Selected target is pointed with high-intensity laser by an airborne or ground laser designator. The laser-guided bomb (LGB) tracks this target using on-board laser seeker and adjusts its trajectory. The main task of the control system is to steer the bomb in the way allowing fixing the reflected laser beam in the centre of photo sensor array. This keeps the bomb axis straight toward the target. The aim of this study is to identify factors influencing on the accuracy of the LGB. It was performed for the prototype of LGB, which was designed in the Air Force Institute of Technology. This is the modernized version of the classical LB-10M bomb. Originally, this bomb has only four rear stabilizers and it has been equipped with four additional fins (Fig. 1). These fins allow controlling the bomb's path in active way. Earlier studies have shown that this is the useful method of bomb control both in longitudinal and lateral motions. Analysis proved that range of the bomb can be effectively changed. This paper presents method of flight simulations for released LGB. Calculations were performed using sixdegrees- of-freedom mathematical model of the LB-10M bomb motion. Aerodynamics was calculated using commercial software. Control laws were determined based on signals detected by two pairs of laser sensors. Exemplary results of simulations are submitted and conclusions focused on the main factors influencing on bombing accuracy are shown.