Which guidance system does the weapon send out the tracking energy?

• A. Active
• B. Passive
• C. Semi-active
• D. Homing

Answer: (A)

Active guidance is defined by the weapon itself emitting a tracking energy, such as a radar ping or laser signal, to locate and steer toward the target. This on-board energy emission allows the seeker to track the target directly and guide the weapon to impact.

Passive guidance relies on detecting energy released by the target rather than emitting energy itself, so it doesn’t send out tracking energy. Semi-active guidance uses energy from an external source to illuminate the target, with the weapon only sensing reflections, not generating its own tracking signal. Homing is a broader term for guidance that can include various methods, but the phrase “sends out tracking energy” specifically points to active guidance.