The work aims to investigate the mechanical response characteristics of bolted structures in complex equipment structures under impact conditions, study how these characteristics affect the stress wave propagation, energy dissipation and whole structural response in the equipment, and put focus on the potential impact of the deformation and failure of the bolt itself on the stability and safety of key components and even the entire system, especially the catastrophic consequences that may be caused in weaponry, to further optimize the design of bolted structures and enhance their performance and reliability under extreme load conditions. The research advances up-to-date on the impact load transfer characteristics as well as the impact response behavior of bolted connection structures were introduced in detail, and related experimental research, finite element method (FEM) simulations and theoretical analysis were reviewed. It is demonstrated that the impact response of bolted connection structures has a significant impact on the structure stability and safety of the equipment. Moreover, based on related analysis, some suggestions for the future research are provided.