Typically, a warhead's the explosive material and detonator that's delivered by a missile, rocket, or torpedo. Etymology During the early development of naval torpedoes, they could be equipped with an inert payload that was intended for use during training, test firing and exercises. This was referred to as a peacehead. The explosive payload carried by weapons intended for use in combat became known as a warhead. The term peacehead subsequently fell out of use. Classification Types of warh… (More on Warhead)