Mortar Systems

The Mortar Systems program, identified as Line Item 6580G02200 in the Army's FY 2026 budget request, is focused on the procurement and modernization of mortar weapon systems for the U.S. Army. This line item supports the acquisition of various mortar systems, including the 60mm Lightweight M224A1, 81mm Lightweight M252A1, and 120mm M120A1/M121 systems. It also covers associated subsystems and components such as the M326 Mortar Stowage Kit (MSK), Mortar Stowage System (MSS), trailers, tool kits, and other supporting equipment. The overarching goal is to ensure that both mounted and dismounted platforms in Armor Brigade Combat Teams (ABCTs), Stryker Brigade Combat Teams (SBCTs), and Infantry Brigade Combat Teams (IBCTs) are equipped with reliable, modern, and safe indirect fire capabilities.

A key objective of the Mortar Systems budget line is to address the Army Acquisition Objective (AAO) and Operational Need Statement (ONS) requirements, particularly in light of ongoing Army reorganization efforts. The program is designed to fill shortages resulting from the transition of ABCTs from two battalions per brigade to three, as well as the establishment of new stand-up units. This expansion necessitates additional mortar systems to maintain operational readiness and support evolving tactical requirements. The procurement also aims to mitigate safety and obsolescence concerns by updating technical data packages (TDPs), implementing engineering change proposals (ECPs), and providing modified work order (MWO) kits.

In FY 2026, the program is divided into two primary funding streams: Base and Overseas Operations Costs (OOC). Base funding is allocated for the procurement of M121 120mm mortar weapon systems, including required subsystems and support kits. This funding also supports modernization efforts for both mounted and dismounted platforms, such as the Armor Multi-Purpose Vehicle (AMPV), and ensures that technical and safety issues are addressed in the fielded systems. The procurement process is managed by the Army Contracting Command at Picatinny Arsenal, NJ, with EFW Inc. of Fort Worth, TX serving as the primary contractor.

The Overseas Operations Costs (OOC) portion is dedicated to the procurement of additional M121 120mm mortar weapon systems in support of Operation Atlantic Resolve (OAR). This funding stream is justified by the need to support both active and reserve components of the Armed Forces for homeland defense, domestic emergency response, and military support to civil authorities, as mandated by Section 1815 of the FY 2008 National Defense Authorization Act. The OOC funding reflects ongoing operational requirements and the need for rapid fielding of indirect fire capabilities in overseas theaters.

Cost analysis for the Mortar Systems program reveals detailed allocations for hardware, logistics, acceptance testing, fielding, production engineering, staging and transportation, and training. Hardware costs include recurring procurement of mortar systems and components, such as cannon tubes and stowage kits. Logistics costs cover government integrated logistics support (ILS), while acceptance testing and fielding ensure that systems meet operational standards before deployment. Production engineering funds are allocated for technical updates and modifications, and additional resources are dedicated to transportation and training services to support effective fielding and sustainment.

Each system and component procured under this line item is intended to enhance the Army's indirect fire capabilities, improve rapid emplacement and displacement, and support integration with current and future vehicle and trailer platforms. The program also seeks to maintain cost efficiency where possible, though unit costs may fluctuate due to changes in procurement quantities and loss of economy of scale. The Mortar Systems budget line is structured to provide the Army with the necessary tools to meet both current operational demands and future modernization goals.