Automated maneuvering decisions for air-to-air combat

A game-matrix approach is used to generate intelligent maneuvering decisions for nap-of-the-earth one-on-one helicopter air combat over hilly terrain. Decisions are made in real time using the AUTOMAN program by comparing scores based upon the predicted orientation, range, velocity, and terrain clearance for various maneuver combinations of both aircraft. The program has been demonstrated at the NASA Ames Vertical Motion Simulator, providing manned helicopter simulations. Sample trajectories from a stand-alone version of the program designed for nonpiloted simulations demonstrate that the present automated maneuvering logic generates some of the tactics employed by experienced pilots in flight tests. The program also has application to fixed-wing aircraft simulations.