The SM-3 eviscerates its targets through the use of "sheer force," rather than an explosive warhead, explains Live Science. Its manufacturer Raytheon describes the interceptor as a "kill vehicle" that rams into a ballistic missile with the force of a 10-ton truck traveling at 600 mph. Or like "shooting a bullet with another bullet" – emphasising the insane velocities involved in the feat.
https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/technology/us-shoots-down-a-fake-nuke-using-a-kill-vehicle-interceptor/ar-BBPfA5u?ocid=spartanntp