The BLU-96/B is part of a
category of munitions known as Fuel-Air
Explosives (FAE). These types of weapons
are designed to disperse a fuel aerosol
cloud into the air and then ignite it,
resulting in a high-temperature blast over a
wide area. The explosive effect is
characterized by an overpressure
shockwave followed by a longer-lasting
burn effect. These characteristics make
FAEs effective against fortified bunkers,
equipment, and personnel due to the broad
area of impact and intense pressure and
heat they generate. FAEs are often used in
environments where traditional explosives
might be less effective, applying their
unique explosive characteristics for
particular strategic advantages.