AbstractThe impact resistance of the Nomex honeycomb sandwich structure subjected to strong dynamic loading of lightweight and deformable projectiles was studied experimentally. The deformation process and failure modes of the sandwich panels were investigated by using a first‐state gas gun to launch aluminum foam projectiles. 3D‐DIC was presented to investigate the dynamic response in terms of response rate and deflection‐profile history. And the impact resistance of three structures, namely single‐layer sandwich, rubber‐honeycomb sandwich and double‐layer sandwich, was compared in relation to the load intensity. The results show that the dynamic response process of the sandwich panel can be divided into discrete deformation stage, concentrated deformation stage,elastic stage, vibration stage and stabilization stage. As the impulse increases, the maximum deflection of the back face‐sheet continues to increase. Under the strong load of a light and deformable projectile, both rubber‐honeycomb and double‐layer honeycomb sandwich structures can effectively reduce the deflection change of the back face‐sheet and improve the load‐bearing capacity of the structure. Qualitatively analyzing the relationship between structure, loading, and performance can be carried out to provide guidance for structural design.