M252 Mortar

Mission

Provide long-range indirect fire support to light infantry, air assault, and airborne units across the entire battalion front with sufficient range to engage targets out to the limit of the battalion zone of influence.

Description and Specifications

The M252 81mm mortar is a crew-served, medium weight mortar which is highly accurate and provides for a greater range and lethality than the previous 81mm mortar. The M252 system consists of the M253 Cannon (tube), M177 Mortar Mount, M3A1 Baseplate, and M64A1 Sight Unit.

• Cannon Length:   50 in (1.27 m)
• Max. Range:   5,935 m
• Min. Range:   83 m
• Weight:   91 lbs
• Rate of Fire:   (dependent on ammunition round fired) Max.: 25-30 per minute for 2 minutes;  Sustained: 8 to 16 per minute
• Ammunition:   A variety of NATO-standard ammunition, including high-explosive, red phosphorous/smoke, and illumination
• Crew:   3

• Entered Army Service: 1987
• Manufacturer: Multiple