What type of warhead does the Sea Sparrow utilize?

The Sea Sparrow missile utilizes a fragmentation or frag warhead. This type of warhead is designed to disperse fragments upon detonation, maximizing the potential to damage or destroy enemy targets, particularly aircraft. The fragmentation effect is advantageous in aerial warfare, as it increases the likelihood of neutralizing fast-moving targets by creating a wide dispersion of shrapnel that can impact an area, rather than relying solely on a singular explosive force.

This choice is particularly relevant to the Sea Sparrow's role in defense systems, where engaging incoming missiles or aircraft requires a warhead capable of effective kinetic engagement over a larger area. The design of frag warheads makes them well-suited for such targets, as the pieces of shrapnel can incapacitate or significantly damage enemy assets at varying distances from the explosion.