warhead
n. countablen. the front part of a missile or rocket that carries the explosives. It is the part of the weapon that actually blows up when it hits a target.
n. the explosive section of a missile, rocket, or torpedo, containing the payload and detonator. Often distinguished from the propulsion system and guidance mechanism.
The missile was fitted with a conventional warhead.
Engineers worked to ensure the warhead would remain stable during the high-speed flight toward the testing range.
International treaties often focus on limiting the number of active nuclear warheads a nation can maintain in its arsenal to prevent global escalation.
From war + head, originally to distinguish a live war head of a torpedo from an inert exercise head. Piecewise doublet of war chief.
Commonly used in military and geopolitical contexts; often paired with 'nuclear' or 'conventional'.