Elbit and IDF tested a Laser and GPS Guided Mortar Munition

15 March, 2021

"Laser and GPS guided munition transforms the mortar system from a statistical into a precision fire system, thus delivering a significant change at the tactical level"

The Directorate of Defense R&D in the Israel Ministry of Defense (DDR&D), together with the IDF’s Ground Forces and Elbit Systems, revealed a precise, laser and GPS guided mortar munition named “Iron Sting“. The 120 mm mortar has recently undergone final trials in a testing site in southern Israel. The completion of testing enables the start of serial production ahead of the system’s supply to the IDF.

The series of tests was carried out using two networked Cardom mortar systems developed by Elbit Systems: a “Cardom” system, mounted on an M113 APC and a “Cardom Spear” system, mounted on a Hummer 4X4 SUV. The Iron Sting is designed to engage targets precisely, in both open terrains and urban environments, while reducing the possibility of collateral damage and preventing injury to non-combatants.

The Iron Sting Guided Mortar Munition offers a range of 1-12 km, depending on the mortar tube and hitting accurracy smaler than 1 m. Three modes of operation, GPS/IMU, SAL+GPS/IMU and SAL+IMU provide robust capabilities in all battlefield scenarios. Iron Sting features a seeker laser sensor capable of operating with standard pulse (NATO STANAG3722) and an encoded CW laser diode (lightweight and low-cost, suitable for small drones and UAS).

Elbit's smart mortar hit a target. No more "a statistical weapon"
Elbit’s smart mortar hit a target. No more “a statistical weapon”

Head of Research and Development in the DDR&D, Brig. Gen. Yaniv Rotem, said it was a 10 years of research and development. “Todat we can provide the IDF’s ground forces with advanced capabilities made for the modern battlefield. This laser and GPS- guided mortar munition provides troops with a precise firing capability that has only been implemented in missiles and air munition systems.”

General Manager of Elbit Systems Land Division, Yehuda Vered: “The introduction of laser and GPS guided munition transforms the mortar system from a statistical fire power into a precision fire system, thus delivering a significant change in fire capabilities at the tactical level.”

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