What does a 'malfunction' in ordnance refer to?

A 'malfunction' in ordnance pertains specifically to a failure to function correctly. This implies that the ordnance, such as a bomb or detonator, does not operate as intended. A malfunction can manifest in various ways, including failure to detonate, misfire, or premature detonation, which all pose significant safety risks and complicate disposal operations.

Enhanced performance suggests an improvement or an increase in efficiency, which is not aligned with the concept of a malfunction. Normal operation indicates that the ordnance is functioning as designed, which is the opposite of what a malfunction implies. Improper handling relates to the human interaction with ordnance that may lead to issues, but it does not define the intrinsic operational failure of the ordnance itself. Thus, recognizing that a malfunction specifically indicates a deviation from desired function is critical in the context of Explosive Ordnance Disposal.