M120/M121 Mortar
Mission
Provide heavy weapon, high-angle organic indirect fire support to the maneuver unit commander.
Entered Army Service
1990
Description and Specifications
A conventional smoothbore, muzzle-loaded mortar system that provides increased range, lethality and safety compared to the World War II-vintage 4.2-inch (107mm) heavy mortar system it replaced in mechanized infantry, motorized, armored, and cavalry units. It is employed in towed (M120) and carrier-mounted (M121) versions and in the Stryker Brigade Combat Team mortar carrier. It fires a family of enhanced, U.S.-produced ammunition. The M120 towed system consists of the M298 Cannon (tube), M190 Bipod, M9 Baseplate, and the M67 Sight Unit. The M121 tracked carrier version consists of the M298 Cannon, M191 Bipod, M9 Baseplate, and the Carrier Adaption Kit. With the use of an auxiliary M9 Baseplate and extension feet for the M191 Bipod, the M121 can be dismounted from the vehicle and emplaced for ground-mounted operation.
- Cannon Length: 69 in (1.75 in)
- Maximum Range: 7,240 m
- Minimum Range: 200 m
- Weight: 319 lbs
- Rate of Fire: 16 rounds per minute for the first minute; 4 rounds per minute sustained
- Ammunition: High-explosive, smoke, illumination (visible light and infrared), full-range practice
- Crew: 4 (M121 carrier-mounted on the M1064); 5 (M120 towed)
Manufacturer
Multiple
