By means of numerical simulations, we have studied the statistical properties of the fragments cloud formed during high-velocity destruction of the spherical projectile at its interaction with a mesh bumper. We give a quantitative description of the destruction of the projectile, expressed in the statistics of the fragments cloud, and study the nature of the transition from the damage to the fragmentation of the projectile when the impact velocity varies, i.e. when the energy transmitted at impact varies. A distinctive feature of the present work that the calculations were performed using the complete equations of deformable solid mechanics by smooth particle hydrodynamics method. This approach allows us to at least check the conclusions made previously based on simplified models, and to identify the influence of fracture criterion on the results obtained.