AUSA 2023: Scorpion 81mm mortar comes to USA
Rear view of Scorpion 81 mm mortar integrated on a MRZR Alpha 4 light weight platform with the non-seating baseplate deployed on the ground (Photo: Ben Watts)
The example shown at AUSA 2023 is called the Scorpion Light as it is mounted on the rear of a Polaris MRZR Alpha 4 light vehicle chassis.
It can be integrated on larger vehicles such as the widely deployed Toyota Land Cruiser 4x4 and this version has been supplied to a Middle East customer in large numbers with some outfitted for extended fire missions.
It has also been integrated in an armoured personnel carrier and deployed by the Ukraine. Both of these have opted for a 120mm mortar system which can be changed for an 81mm mortar barrel if required.
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Land Warfare
-
Raytheon UK team awarded US$2.7 billion British Army training contract
The British Army’s Collective Training System 15-year contract is planned to provide soldiers with an integrated, digitally enabled system and transform how they train, prepare and adapt for future missions.
-
Combined arms the Turkish way – showcasing new tech at an amphibious exercise
New Turkish weapon systems and operational capabilities continue to evolve, as the recent EFES 2026 event clearly demonstrated.
-
What does the proliferation of larger platforms mean for the UGV market?
A surge in heavier, combat-focused uncrewed ground vehicles is emerging, although operational demand remains uncertain.
-
Fenris 6x6 emerges as first joint vehicle from John Cockerill-Arquus partnership
The new 6x6 wheeled fire support vehicle is armed with a 105mm NATO-standard high-pressure rifled gun, positioning it for the French Army and wider potential allied requirements.
-
Do heavy IFV designs make sense on the modern battlefield?
Even with additional armour, many current-generation infantry fighting vehicles are highly vulnerable to enemy fire in the contemporary operating environment. Are heavier platforms based on tank designs for use in this role the answer?
-
Uncrewed ground vehicles put to the test as NATO eyes autonomous shift
The European Land Robot Trials are influenced by NATO researchers seeking to create uncrewed ground vehicle standards for allied Western forces working in multinational task forces.