What are the two primary means of guiding a weapon?

The two primary means of guiding a weapon are navigating and homing.

Navigating refers to the initial phase of the trajectory where the weapon is directed along a predetermined flight path, ensuring it reaches the target area. This phase often includes the use of flight control systems and guidance algorithms to maintain the correct route.

Homing, on the other hand, is the process utilized when the weapon approaches the target. In this phase, the weapon utilizes sensors or guidance systems to detect and follow the target, adjusting its flight in real-time to ensure accuracy. This is especially relevant for guided munitions that might need to adjust their path based on changing target locations or movements.

Understanding both navigating and homing is crucial in military operations, as effective weapon guidance improves accuracy and increases mission success rates. Other options mentioned do not encompass the comprehensive methods of guiding a weapon, as they focus more on either the preparatory steps or less relevant actions during the weapon’s flight.