The Essential Protection Needed: Ducking and Covering During Mortar Fire

Mortar fire is a critical component in modern warfare, used to provide suppressive fire for infantry and support artillery. However, the dangers of this weapon are not always fully appreciated. Mortar operators must take measures to protect themselves from the intense shockwave and noise generated by each round fired. In this article, we will discuss the reasons why mortar operators duck and cover, and how proper protection can minimize these risks.

Understanding the Hazards of Mortar Fire

Mortar operators must be prepared to face a variety of threats when operating this powerful weapon. One of the most significant risks is the sound and shockwave generated by each round. The loudness of a mortar fire is described as 'loud as hell,' with the blast propellant potentially causing burns and other injuries.
Blast Sound: The noise generated by mortars is extremely loud and can severely impact hearing. This is particularly true for high-pressure rounds like the 81mm mortar, which uses a 3-4 lb shell that travels several thousand meters. After firing a few rounds, the ability to hear is significantly reduced due to the intensity of the sound. Muzzle Flash: Even at night, the intense flash of the mortar can be a significant hazard. This flash, in combination with the blast, can cause minor burns, and in extreme cases, a pepper-like burn pattern.

One prime example of the sound's intensity is the 60mm mortar round, which is about 11 times larger than a 12-gauge shotgun round and travels 11 times further. Thus, it's over 100 times as powerful. The sound is so intense that it can stun the assistant gunner, especially during rapid fire.

Adopting Safety Measures for Mortar Operations

To mitigate these risks, mortar operators and their teams must adopt comprehensive safety measures, including proper protection and positioning. The primary reasons for ducking and covering during mortar fire are:

Duck for Protection from Shockwave

When a mortar is fired, there is a shockwave that travels outward from the barrel. Ducking and covering helps to avoid a small portion of this shockwave, which can cause significant injury. This is particularly important during nighttime operations when the muzzle flash is more visible.

Even with modern ear protectors, the sound is so intense that it can still cause permanent hearing damage. This is why ear protection is critical—whether it's in-ear plugs or outer muffs. However, it's essential to remember that these protections are not foolproof, and ducking is still necessary to avoid the harsh impact of the blast.

Getting Acquainted with Mortar Operations

Many soldiers, in their first experience, often underestimate the intensity of the sound and the potential for injury. It's only after multiple firings that the full realization sets in about the magnitude of the sound. As one former mortarman stated, 'It is just friggin' impressive to be there if you don't duck and cover.'

For safety, soldiers often wear full combat gear, in-ear plugs, and even outer muffs. However, even with these protections, the sound is deafening, and the blast can cause discomfort and injury. For those operating in close proximity to the mortar, this can mean 'hearing' the blast with their entire body.

Real-World Experiences and Precautions

Despite modern safety measures, there are still risks associated with mortar operations. For instance, when the firing is interrupted because of bad weather, getting a shell out of the tube can be challenging and dangerous. In one instance, the crew had to slide a 120mm 12-kg shell out of the tube, which itself weighed about 100kg. This was not a pleasant experience, and it underscores the importance of proper handling and safety protocols.

Furthermore, the length of the mortar tube ensures that mortars are generally safe to operate when above the muzzle. However, there have been rare instances where this can change. One such occurrence was when the tube had to be accessed due to sudden bad weather during firing. This situation highlights the need for meticulous planning and communication to ensure the safety of all personnel.

Conclusion

In summary, the risks of mortar fire are significant, and it is crucial for operators to adopt comprehensive safety measures. Ducking and covering during mortar fire helps to protect against the intense shockwave and sound, which can cause long-term hearing damage and other injuries. With proper training, equipment, and safety protocols, mortar operators can perform their duties with greater confidence and protection.