A Multi-UCAV Cooperative Decision-Making Method Based on an MAPPO Algorithm for Beyond-Visual-Range Air Combat

Abstract

To solve the problems of autonomous decision making and the cooperative operation of multiple unmanned combat aerial vehicles (UCAVs) in beyond-visual-range air combat, this paper proposes an air combat decision-making method that is based on a multi-agent proximal policy optimization (MAPPO) algorithm. Firstly, the model of the unmanned combat aircraft is established on the simulation platform, and the corresponding maneuver library is designed. In order to simulate the real beyond-visual-range air combat, the missile attack area model is established, and the probability of damage occurring is given according to both the enemy and us. Secondly, to overcome the sparse return problem of traditional reinforcement learning, according to the angle, speed, altitude, distance of the unmanned combat aircraft, and the damage of the missile attack area, this paper designs a comprehensive reward function. Finally, the idea of centralized training and distributed implementation is adopted to improve the decision-making ability of the unmanned combat aircraft and improve the training efficiency of the algorithm. The simulation results show that this algorithm can carry out a multi-aircraft air combat confrontation drill, form new tactical decisions in the drill process, and provide new ideas for multi-UCAV air combat.