Mortar Fire Control Systems Modifications

The Mortar Fire Control Systems Modification program is a key line item in the Army's FY 2026 budget request, supporting the modernization and sustainment of the Mortar Fire Control System (MFCS) and related components. The MFCS is designed to enhance the accuracy and responsiveness of Army mortar units by determining weapon position and orientation, navigating, calculating ballistics, and enabling digital communication within the Fires Support Network. This program is managed under the Army's Other Procurement appropriation, specifically within the Communications and Electronics Equipment budget activity. It is intended to ensure that both mounted and dismounted mortar units maintain technological relevance and operational effectiveness.

One of the primary objectives of the MFCS Modification program is the integration of Military-Code (M-Code) capabilities into both MFCS and Lightweight Handheld Mortar Ballistic Computer (LHMBC) M32A1 systems. M-Code is a secure, anti-spoofing GPS signal designed to improve positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT) resilience against electronic warfare threats. The budget supports procurement of M-Code hardware and retrofitting of fielded LHMBC M32A1 units, ensuring compliance with military encryption standards and enhancing the survivability of mortar fire control assets in contested environments.

Another significant goal of this line item is to address the replacement of aging and obsolete major system components within the MFCS. The system's main Line Replaceable Units (LRUs) include the Fire Control Computer (FCC), Enhanced Power Distribution Assembly (EPDA), Inertial Navigation Unit (INU), Portable Universal Battery Supply (PUBS), Gunner's Display (GD), and associated cable sets. Modification efforts target both hardware and software upgrades, focusing on maintaining operational readiness and reducing lifecycle costs by transitioning to newer, more reliable technologies.

The program also supports the transition of MFCS to a Modular Open Systems Architecture (MOSA). This objective is intended to facilitate future upgrades, interoperability, and integration with other Army and joint systems. By adopting MOSA principles, the Army aims to reduce vendor lock-in, enable faster technology insertion, and streamline the acquisition process for future enhancements to mortar fire control capabilities.

In addition to hardware improvements, the MFCS Modification program places emphasis on software modernization. Funding will support the implementation of software upgrades in accordance with Army Directive 2024-2, which mandates enabling modern software development and acquisition practices. This includes transitioning to common mortar application software and a standardized Graphical User Interface (GUI), which will improve usability, training efficiency, and reduce support costs across the Army's mortar force.

The program's scope encompasses both procurement and modification activities for current and future mortar fire control systems. By supporting both mounted and dismounted variants, as well as the LHMBC, the Army ensures that a wide range of operational scenarios are covered. The modifications are justified by the need to maintain technological superiority, address emerging threats, and comply with evolving Department of Defense and Army directives regarding secure communications and software development.