The US Armys Utilization of Mortars: Light, Medium, and Heavy

Introduction to Mortars in the US Army

The U.S. Army extensively utilizes mortars in its arsenal, employing various types to provide indirect fire support at different ranges and for different tactical needs. Mortars come in light, medium, and heavy categories, each serving distinct purposes in combat scenarios. This article explores the types of mortars used by the U.S. Army, and how they are utilized in various military operations.

Light Mortars

Light mortars are typically categorized as those with calibers of 60mm, the smallest of the standard mortar sizes. These mortars are highly portable and flexible, making them ideal for rapid deployment and setup. They are often carried on foot or by motorized vehicles, allowing for increased mobility on the battlefield.

60mm Mortars

The 60mm mortar is a British design that has been adopted and widely used by various militaries, including the U.S. Army. It is characterized by its light weight and compact size, which enables infantry units to carry and deploy it with relative ease. The 60mm mortar's relatively short range makes it suitable for close engagements and providing suppressive fire in urban or rural combat zones. Its small size and low profile also make it less conspicuous and therefore less vulnerable to countermeasures.

Medium Mortars

Medium mortars, such as the 81mm models, offer a balance between range and portability. They provide greater firepower than light mortars while still being relatively easy to move and deploy. These mortars are more commonly found in the standard infantry company and are used for a wide range of tactical missions, from providing support for infantry in infantry engagements to neutralizing threats from enemy fortifications.

81mm Mortars

The U.S. Army operates a variety of 81mm mortars, such as the M224. This type of mortar is widely used and is organic to Marine rifle companies, providing them with the necessary firepower to cover and support their operations. The M224 mortar can be towed by vehicles or dismounted, and with its improved targeting systems, it offers enhanced precision and accuracy.

Heavy Mortars

Heavy mortars, such as the 120mm models, provide the most significant range and firepower. These mortars are typically used in situations that require powerful and long-range fire support. The U.S. Army employs several 120mm models, with the Israeli-designed Soltam K6 being a notable example. The wheeled version of the Soltam K6 is specifically designed to be towed by vehicles, providing greater adaptability and mobility in various operational environments.

120mm Mortars

The 120mm mortar, which is popularly used by the U.S. Army, offers a considerable range of up to approximately 8,000 meters. It is known for its high-capacity ammunition that can carry heavy, explosive payloads. The M252 120mm mortar is another widely used model. This mortar is often used in combined arms operations, providing indirect fire support for both infantry and armored units. The M252 is highly versatile, capable of engaging a wide range of targets and adapting to various tactical scenarios.

Tactical Use and Deployment

Mortars are typically fielded at the infantry company level, where they play a crucial role in providing support for ground operations. A small mortar section, often organic to rifle companies, can consist of either two 60mm mortars for faster and more flexible engagements or three 60mm mortars for enhanced firepower in light infantry units. Marine rifle companies, on the other hand, may have a section with three 60mm mortars.

Organic mortar units within the U.S. Army provide essential fire support to infantry battalions, allowing for more flexible and precise engagement of enemy targets without the need for longer-range systems. The combination of light, medium, and heavy mortars ensures that U.S. forces have the necessary firepower to handle a wide range of combat scenarios.

Conclusion

The U.S. Army relies on a diverse range of mortars to meet its fire support needs, from the lightweight and portable 60mm models to the heavy and powerful 120mm systems. Each type serves a specific purpose and is tailored to the tactical requirements of different units and missions. By understanding the role of these mortars, one can better appreciate their importance in modern combat operations and the critical support they provide to U.S. infantry and combined arms units.