When does the air-to-air missile proximity fuze detonation occur?

The air-to-air missile proximity fuze detonation occurs when the missile senses the target moving farther away. This mechanism is designed to enhance the effectiveness of the missile by detonating at an optimum distance from the target, allowing for an engagement even if the missile does not directly hit the target. The proximity fuze can detect changes in the distance between the missile and the target, particularly when the target begins to move away. This feature is critical in dynamic aerial combat situations where direct impact may not be feasible due to the speed and maneuverability of both the missile and the target.

In contrast, detonation upon impact would require the missile to directly collide with the target, which may not always be achievable during high-speed engagements. Likewise, the conditions of a stationary target or a speed limit being exceeded don't trigger the proximity fuze in the same manner, as the fuze is specifically designed for situations where tracking and distance measurement can maximize the likelihood of a successful engagement.