AMPV Turreted Mortar Trials Conducted At Yuma Proving Ground
The Modular Turreted Mortar System (MTMS) trials are underway at the Yuma Proving Ground, Arizona. The new, cutting-edge piece of equipment has been installed on the prototype of the newest Armored Multi-Purpose Vehicle (AMPV). Intensive evaluations are underway to ensure the MTMS system meets performance expectations for an upcoming demonstration at the Maneuver Warfighter Conference at Fort Moore in September 2024.
The MTMS is a novelty within the US Army. NeMo is a semi-automated, single-barrel 120mm breech-loaded mortar manufactured by Patria in Finland. The system ought to replace standard Mortar Carriers lacking several of the features in NeMo. Firstly, the Patria-manufactured system improves the fire rate of mortar by partial automation of loading. Secondly, the system can deliver multiple rounds with simultaneous impact.
Captain Mike Hapner, Program Executive Office Ground Combat Systems, said: “The U.S. Army is interested in the MTMS’ capability to shoot on the move, perform direct fire missions, as well as its capability to conduct Multiple Rounds Simultaneous Impact missions.”
Mortars continue to be a huge asset as a battalion and regimental level in-direct fire support. The variety of charges and rate of fire enables crews to deliver fire missions quickly and respond to various types of threats almost immediately.
The testing undertaken at Yuma Proving Grounds prioritizes crew safety. One focus is the ventilation of the vehicle during combat operations, as toxic fumes tend to build up in the vehicle. Secondly, the impact of remaining in a high-intensity noise environment on the crew is part of the tests as well. Mortars produce high-intensity noise during firing and prolonged exposure can result in hearing damage.
The AMPV MTMS remains an interesting proposal to meet the needs and demands of the US Army. Its versatility and combat adaptability make the vehicle a great indirect support asset for mechanized units. Further testing is, however, needed to unveil the system’s potential drawbacks and issues before implementation. NeMo is already in service with Sweden, Saudi Arabia and Slovenia.