The US military is expanding its efforts to modernise mortar technology
The Scorpion Light is an automated 81mm mobile mortar system mounted on a Polaris MRZR Alpha 6x6. (Photo: Global Military Products)
A growing push towards increasing mobility and lethality across forces can be seen in recent contracts and modernisation efforts, with advancing mortar technology playing an integral role in modern warfare.
The US Army and US Marine Corps (USMC) have been ramping up their focus on increasing lethality for dismounted troops and tactical vehicles by investing in and developing new mortar technology, as portability has become more crucial on the modern battlefield.
This trend came to the fore this month as defence contractor Global Military Products announced on 24 February a contract to deliver its Scorpion Light 81mm mobile mortar system to the US Marine Corps, to be integrated into the Polaris MRZR Alpha 6x6 tactical vehicle.
The deal, which was awarded through the US Naval Surface Technology & Innovation Consortium, is a firm fixed-price
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
-
![Networked advantage: keeping unmanned systems in the loop with battlefield radio technology]()
Networked advantage: keeping unmanned systems in the loop with battlefield radio technology
Unmanned systems are powerful intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) assets and communication tools, but are often isolated from wider networks, limiting their potential. Industry is now tackling this challenge, empowering UxVs to act as integrated nodes across domains.
-
![Eurosatory 2026: What has become of the Main Ground Combat System?]()
Eurosatory 2026: What has become of the Main Ground Combat System?
The Main Ground Combat System has had a troubled life. With repeated delays and competition on the horizon, the programme may be approaching the end of the road.
-
![Eurosatory 2026: France seeks strategic autonomy with Long-Range Ground Strike system]()
Eurosatory 2026: France seeks strategic autonomy with Long-Range Ground Strike system
As countries across Europe strive to acquire new multiple-launch rocket systems (MLRS) off the shelf, France has opted to develop its own to ensure it maintains domestic capability.
-
![“A staggering rate of change”: how experience combating IEDs is being applied to the C-UAS arena]()
“A staggering rate of change”: how experience combating IEDs is being applied to the C-UAS arena
The scale of the current escalation in drone attacks is fuelling demand for C-UAS technology that must address a rapidly evolving and expanding threat. Against this background, important lessons can be learned from the battle against IEDs, with networked responses and dispersed capabilities essential to deliver enduring protection.
-
![Eurosatory 2026: has the time finally come for Oshkosh’s hybrid electric JLTV?]()
Eurosatory 2026: has the time finally come for Oshkosh’s hybrid electric JLTV?
Oshkosh Defense’s hybrid electric Joint Light Tactical Vehicle offers the standard benefits of this type in scenarios such as silent watch and silent running as well as providing power for recharging systems. The company is arguing its 115kW power opens other roles too, particularly counter-drone.
