The main aim of the work was the experimental and numerical analysis of the energy absorption/dissipation capabilities and failure mechanisms of novel hyper-elastic target material intended for ballistic applications including layers of composite armors, projectile catching systems and anti-ricochet layers covering walls of shooting ranges, ballistic tunnels, etc. Static and dynamic mechanical properties of the material were analyzed at both room and elevated temperatures ( $$40\div 80\,^{\circ }\hbox {C}$$40 ÷ 80 ∘ C ). Numerical models of the material and $$7.62\times 25$$7.62 × 25 mm FMJ projectile were defined. Simulations of the hyper-elastic target penetration with the projectile were carried out. The differences between the results obtained numerically and experimentally were determined (measured as a relative error) and were lower than 15% what testified about proper definition of the numerical models of the analyzed phenomenon components.

The active support of a large-scale structure, made up of two elements was designed and manufactured. The first of them - piezoelectric actuator, enables the simulations of vibrations transferred from the ground to the structure. In order to minimize vibrations transmitted through the ground to the construction, the second element of the active support - a system based on magnetorheological dampers was used. The active support enables the simulations of vibrations from the ground using a piezoelectric stack controlled in a reverse feedback loop. Control signals of the feedback loop are: the volume of deformation and vibrations in the selected structures node.