Efficiency Analysis of Fragmentation Warheads Through Advanced Modeling Techniques: Experimental and Numerical Study

Abstract

This research investigates the efficiency of fragmentation warheads through a comprehensive comparison of numerical and analytical modeling techniques, supplemented by arena tests. Advanced numerical models developed within Ansys Autodyn, alongside the mean area of effectiveness software, demonstrate robust capabilities in predicting warhead‐soft target interactions. Our numerical model is supplemented with a complex analytical model, and the integration of these two approaches addresses a significant research gap by providing a thorough evaluation of warhead efficiency. This integrated model serves as a valuable tool for warhead design and optimization. Validated with experimental results, the simulation outcomes show excellent agreement with the arena test data, confirming the accuracy and reliability of the developed models. This study explicitly addresses key research gaps, including the integration between experimental and numerical analyses, the gap between explosive propulsion and the determination of efficiency, and the need for a comprehensive tool for warhead design and optimization. By exploring various warhead design configurations and initiation methods, the research offers critical insights for optimizing warhead performance. Notably, nonuniform barrel‐shaped warheads exhibit a wider fragment distribution, significantly improving weapon‐target interactions, particularly at lower impact angles. The study delves into the key parameters influencing warhead performance, providing detailed justifications for their selection and evaluating the sensitivities of these parameters on the results. This analysis underscores the importance of choosing appropriate parameters for accurate predictions and effective warhead design. In addition, the research highlights the original achievements in overcoming major difficulties and challenges in the field, such as integrating complex numerical and analytical models for comprehensive evaluation. The findings contribute to the advancement of fragmentation warhead design, offering designers reliable tools and guidelines to enhance lethality and efficiency in weapon‐target engagements. Future work aims to expand the software’s capabilities to include diverse targets, fragment types, and interaction geometries, further advancing the field of fragmentation warhead design. By addressing the gaps and challenges identified, this research paves the way for more effective and optimized warhead configurations, enhancing their overall performance and impact.