Onboard CV/CVN and CLF ships, what area must be designated as the missile blast area?

The missile blast area is designated to ensure the safety of personnel and equipment in areas where missile systems are operated. The sponson, which is the part of the ship's hull that projects out, typically houses missile launch systems. It is critical to establish a designated blast area in this region to account for the potential hazards associated with missile launches, including explosive blast effects, shrapnel, and other dangers that could arise during missile operations.

In this context, the designation of the sponson as the missile blast area allows for proper safety measures to be in place, including restricted access during missile operations and appropriate protective gear for personnel nearby. Establishing clear boundaries aids in accident prevention and ensures that all personnel are aware of the risks associated with missile procedures.

The other areas such as the flight deck, hangar deck, and cargo hold, while important for various operations, do not specifically relate to the safety measures needed for missile launches, which is the reason they would not be designated as the missile blast area. Their roles and functionalities differ significantly from those of the sponson when it comes to missile safety protocols.