Modeling Complex Behavior of Multi-projectile Counter UAV 12 Gauge Ammunition

The misuse of low cost and effortlessly accessible unmanned aerial vehicles is a swiftly growing phenomenon. The uncomplicated employment of these systems and the conceivable magnitude of their effect at short engagement distances facilitate adverse exploitation in a wide range of scenarios. These facts merge into the urgent need for a flexible, economical, and promptly deployable short-range weapon system. The properties of a specific 12 Gauge ammunition fit as a response to deter the imminent threat. The considered non-conventional projectile behaves as a slug for the initial part of its trajectory. Then, it endures a tilt after which a cloud of pellets is discharged. This complex behavior appears effective but must be investigated for adequate operation in pragmatic scenarios. This is achieved with a theoretical analysis and a semi-empirical assessment of the weapon system characteristics. Present work provides the current progress state on a two-dimensional Point Mass Model for the trajectory of the considered projectile, complemented with the empirical assessment of several model parameters allowing to approach the physical trajectory. This work serves as a contribution in the development of the trajectory model to assess the considered weapon system in its operational use for short-range scenarios.