lockon

Lock-on refers to the targeting state in sensors and weapons systems where a target has been acquired and is maintained within a tracking cue to guide a projectile or cue defensive actions. A successful lock allows a guided weapon to adjust its trajectory to intersect with the target, increasing hit probability even as the target maneuvers.

The process and technologies behind lock-on vary. Radar lock-on uses transmitted radar energy to detect and continuously track a target. Infrared or electro-optical lock-on relies on the target’s heat or visual features for guidance. Semi-active radar homing passes the signal from a separate illumination source to the missile, which then homes in on reflections. Passive optical or image-based lock-ons use recognition algorithms to follow a designated target. Some systems combine multiple modalities, and missiles may be capable of lock-on before launch or post-launch (lock-on-after-launch, LOAL), depending on range and sensor capability. Lock-on can be lost if the target escapes, jammers degrade sensing, or countermeasures obscure the target.

In gaming and popular culture, the term lock-on is also used to describe a gameplay mechanic that automatically tracks a selected target, simplifying aiming and engagement. A number of flight simulators and action games include lock-on systems to simulate guided missiles and targeting behavior. The name Lock On has also been used for video games, including a series of military flight simulators released in the early 2000s.