[jandrewrogers]

All modern missiles use a proximity fuse that selects the optimum position relative to the target to detonate, it isn't based on contact. One thing to consider is that the warhead is not in the nose -- that is where the sensors are -- but further back on the missile. These warheads often us an annular (ring-like) blast pattern, hence why positioning and orientation relative to the target at detonation time is important to maximize damage.