REPUBLIC OF SERBIA

MINISTRY OF DEFENCE

www.mod.gov.rs

MINISTRY OF DEFENCE

Material Resources Sector

Defensive Technologies Department

Military Technical Institute

www.vti.mod.gov.rs

FUTURE MORTAR SYSTEMS

Radoš Rončević

Military Technical Institute, Belgrade, roncer@eunet.rs

Mirko Jezdimirović

Military Technical Institute, Belgrade, ejezdimi@ptt.rs

MIODRAG LISOV

Military Technical Institute, Belgrade

Ana Brkušanin

Technical Test Center, Belgrade, ana.brkusanin@gmail.com

Abstract: Operations in Afghanistan have highlighted the necessity for militaries to possess responsive organic fire-support in demanding operating environments. Meanwhile, recent advancements in precision guidance technology, target acquisition and fire control systems have hugely improved the capability and employability of the mortar in fire-support missions, especially where collateral damage is a major concern. Militaries globally are beginning to recognize the mortar can provide unique, prompt and precise indirect support to a ground commander and discover where future capabilities lie.

This article is also about of current lightweight systems (60 mm and 81 mm), extended range capability, increased mobility and lethality and latest mortar systems of US Army, US Marine Corps, Swedish Army, French Army and Russian Army. It offers a short insight into the latest technologies and tactics that will revolutionize the use of light, medium and heavy mortars.

Key words: mortar systems, self-propelled mortar 120 mm, ammunition, laser and GPS guidance.