In weapon guidance, what does the term "homing" focus upon?

The term "homing" in weapon guidance specifically refers to a weapon's ability to follow the target dynamically. This involves the weapon employing its onboard systems to adjust its flight path in real-time as it seeks out and approaches the intended target. Homing systems leverage various sensors, such as infrared, radio, or laser guidance, enabling the weapon to maintain a direct line to the target despite the target's movement or changes in environment.

The focus on "following the target dynamically" distinguishes homing from other guidance methods, such as those that rely on fixed trajectories or predetermined paths. In contrast to adjusting the weapon launch angle or guiding according to a set route, homing is inherently adaptive, making it a crucial aspect of modern guided munitions. Using radar only for tracking is also a more narrow approach, as homing can utilize multiple sensor types for optimal target acquisition and engagement.