What is a primary purpose of a delay fuze?

A delay fuze is specifically designed to trigger the detonation of an explosive device after a certain period, which can be critical when the device is required to penetrate a surface before detonating. This is particularly important in munitions designed to penetrate targets, such as bunkers or armored vehicles, ensuring that the explosion occurs after the munition has effectively entered the target, maximizing the effectiveness of the weapon. This design helps in increasing the overall lethality and damage inflicted on the intended target by allowing the explosive to reach its optimal location within the target structure before it detonates.

Other choices do not align with the function of a delay fuze. Engaging targets at long distances usually relates to guidance systems rather than fuzing mechanisms. Maximum damage on impact is more related to impact fuzes designed to explode upon immediate contact. Remote activation pertains to electronic devices that can be triggered from a distance, which does not describe the primary role of delay fuzes.