A Sliding Mode Missile Pitch Autopilot Synthesis for

High Angle of Attack Maneuvering

Abstract

A new approach to the synthesis of longitudinal autopilots for missiles flying at high angle
of attack is presented. The method used here is based on sliding mode control. It uses a
combination of aerodynamic surfaces and reaction jet thrusters, to achieve controllability beyond
stall. The autopilot used here works on a small section of the flight envelope consisting of a fast
180 degree heading reversal in the vertical plane. In the maneuver chosen for autopilot validation,
the vehicle flies through a wide range in angles of attack. This requires robustness with respect to
uncertainties in the system’s dynamics induced by large variations in dynamic pressure and
aerodynamic coefficients .The autopilot uses variable structure control methods, and changes logic
according to the missile being below or above the stall region. By using this type controller
increased maneuverability and off-bore sight capability can be achieved for a better defense. Also
a highly agile missile with an improved end game performance can be developed

Reference
[1] Ajay Thukral and Mario Innocenti, ”A Sliding Mode Missile Pitch Autopilot Synthesis for
High Angle of Attack Maneuvering ,” IEEE Transactions On Control Systems Technology, Vol.
6, No. 3, May 1998

[2] M. Innocenti and A. Thukral, “Simultaneous reaction jet and aerodynamic control of missile
systems,” in AIAA-93-3739 Guidance, Navigation, and Contr. Conf., Monterey, CA, Aug. 1993.

[3] M. Innocenti, “Preliminary missile autopilot using reaction jet and aerodynamic control,”
AFOSR Summer Faculty Program, Wright Lab., Armament Directorate, Eglin AFB, Final Rep.

SABAN S

M2 GNC

ROLL NO: 14