Fuzes

Fuzes are devices designed to initiate the explosive charge of a munition at a preselected time or condition. They are integrated into artillery shells, bombs, mines, missiles, and grenades to ensure that the main charge detonates when it is intended to do so.

Common types include mechanical fuzes that trigger on impact, time or delay fuzes that detonate after a programmed interval, and proximity fuzes that activate when the munition is near the target using radar or infrared sensing. Electronic and programmable fuzes use solid-state electronics to control arming and detonation, allowing multiple modes and greater precision.

Safety and arming features are central to fuze design. Many fuzes remain inert until deliberate arming steps are completed, and they incorporate environmental and self-checks to prevent accidental detonation during handling, transport, or flight.

Historically, mechanical percussion fuzes were among the earliest types used in artillery. The mid-20th century saw widespread adoption of proximity fuzes to increase hit probability. In recent decades, electronic and programmable fuzes have become common, offering versatile modes for different targets and missions.