What must be designated as the missile blast area on CV/CVN and CLF ships with launchers on sponsons?

The missile blast area must be designated as the sponson on CV/CVN and CLF ships with launchers on sponsons because this is the area directly affected by the explosive potential during missile firing operations. Sponsons are the projected structures on the ship's side that house the missile launchers. When a missile is launched, both the kinetic and explosive forces can create significant hazards, impacting not just the immediate vicinity but also requiring careful management of personnel and assets in the surrounding areas.

Designating the sponson as the missile blast area is critical for ensuring safety protocols are followed effectively, maintaining proper distances for personnel and equipment during launch operations, and preventing damage to other areas of the ship or injury to crew members. This designation helps coordinate safety measures and ensures all crew members are aware of and adhere to the established hazardous zones, thereby facilitating a safer operational environment on board the vessels.