Modeling the impact of complex electromagnetic environments on UAV combat effectiveness

Modern battlefields are increasingly characterized by complex electromagnetic environments (EME), posing significant challenges to unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) operational effectiveness.

To address this issue, this study aims to quantitatively evaluate how complex EME affects UAV operational effectiveness using a multi-level framework, incorporating defined key metrics including anti-jamming capability verification.

A three-tier evaluation model was developed, incorporating EME complexity, subsystem performance, and operational capabilities. EME complexity was characterized by four metrics weighted via AHP. Critical subsystem indicators—such as communication reliability and navigation accuracy—and operational capabilities like mission execution and anti-jamming performance were causally mapped within an environment-effectiveness mapping. This mapping enabled the model to be normalized and integrated using sensitivity coefficients, and stochastic jamming scenarios were simulated in MATLAB to validate the approach.

The results demonstrated a distinct negative exponential relationship between EME complexity and operational effectiveness. Performance declined progressively with intensified EME, but notably, UAVs equipped with advanced anti-jamming systems maintained higher effectiveness under identical conditions.

This study confirms the critical importance of anti-jamming technologies in preserving UAV combat capability in complex EME; the proposed evaluation framework offers practical insights for developing robust UAV systems suited to contested electromagnetic spectra.