The Destructive Impact of Mortar Shells: Why They Are Particularly Dangerous

Mortar shells are a significant threat in modern warfare due to their unique explosive nature and effectiveness. Unlike howitzer or gun shells, they fall closer to vertical and often explode nearly instantly, rendering their explosive charge lethal without the need for direct contact. This article explores why mortar shells are so dangerous, touching on their historical development, modern usage, and the potential for severe injuries even without direct hits.

Understanding Mortar Shells: A Brief Overview

Mortar shells have been a crucial element in both offensive and defensive operations throughout the 20th and 21st centuries. Mortars are essentially short-range indirect fire weapons that can deliver their payload within a confined space, thereby maximizing the impact and spread of the explosives. This vertical trajectory means that mortar shells can come into contact with targets without the need for a direct hit, making them highly effective in urban warfare and landscape-based combat scenarios.

Why Mortar Shells Are Particularly Dangerous

Firstly, mortar shells pose a significant threat through their pressure waves. When a mortar shell explodes, it creates a powerful acoustic and kinetic force that can cause severe internal injuries, even without damaging the target directly. This phenomenon is particularly dangerous in confined spaces such as caves, bunkers, and trenches, where the pressure wave can incapacitate or kill individuals without leaving any visible wounds. The impact of this kind of injury cannot be overstated, as it often leads to severe disfigurement, permanent disabilities, and even death.

Historical and Modern Developments in Mortar Technology

The evolution of mortar technology has seen significant advancements, particularly in the hands of nations like Russia. The Russians have developed heavy mortars, including rifled and automatic designs, further enhancing the versatility and destructive power of the weapon. For instance, the GRAN (Russian Guided Round for 120mm Mortars) can be guided to its target, and the 2B9 Vasilek (Cornflower) is an automatic 82mm mortar that can fire quickly and accurately. These advancements have made mortars even more formidable and standoff effective in modern warfare.

Mortar Shells as a Devastating Artillery Weapon

Mortar shells can also be used to deliver air burst rounds, which explode several meters above the ground, thereby maximizing the area of impact and the number of casualties. The ability to take out targets behind cover or in bunkers makes mortars an invaluable asset in modern combat. Additionally, the speed at which a mortar crew can prepare and fire a shell gives them a significant tactical advantage. For example, a Marine mortar team can set up, calibrate, and fire a round within a remarkably short time frame, ensuring that the enemy is constantly under threat.

Perception and Impact on Military Operations

Mortar shells are not just about the number of rounds fired; they are about the psychological impact they have on units in combat. A single mortar explosion can cause a unit to stop, seek cover, and completely disorient the enemy. This psychological effect can be as devastating as the physical injuries caused by the shrapnel and blast. Since the advent of proximity fuses during World War II, the destructive capability of mortar shells has grown exponentially, making them a cornerstone of artillery operations.

Training and Usage

While it is true that the effectiveness of mortar shells is heavily reliant on the training of the crew, this should not be seen as a criticism of the weapon itself. Just as any other weapon system, the success of mortar shells is determined by the proficiency of the operators. Mortars are not "bullshit" in modern warfare, as demonstrated by the actions and effectiveness of units that rely on them. The ability to hit targets with precision despite the limitations of mortar shells is a testament to the skill and dedication of the personnel involved.

Personal Experiences and Historical Significance

The experiences shared by the author, including his father's story in the Marine Corps during the Vietnam War, highlight the brutal reality of mortar shelling. The ability of mortars to cause severe injuries without direct impact is a key factor in their effectiveness. Mortars have been a significant contributor to artillery casualties, accounting for a substantial portion of combat injuries and deaths. The psychological impact of these weapons is often underappreciated but is a crucial aspect of their effectiveness.

Overall, the destructive impact of mortar shells is multifaceted. Their vertical trajectory, combined with the pressure waves and explosion, makes them a versatile and dangerous weapon in modern warfare. The advancements in mortar technology, coupled with their psychological impact, make them a cornerstone in the arsenal of any modern military force.