Mortar System Market By Caliber (Light Caliber [≤60mm], Medium Caliber [61–81mm], Heavy Caliber [≥82mm]); By Component (Mortar Tubes, Fire Control Systems, Ammunition, Baseplates & Bipods, Mounting Platforms); By Platform (Man-Portable, Vehicle-Mounted, Autonomous); By Geography, Segment Revenue Estimation, Forecast, 2024–2030.

Introduction And Strategic Context

The Global Mortar System Market will witness a robust CAGR of 6.9% , valued at $3.4 billion in 2024 , and is expected to appreciate and reach $5.1 billion by 2030 , confirms Strategic Market Research.

 

A mortar system is a lightweight, portable, muzzle-loaded weapon used to launch explosive projectiles in a high- arcing trajectory. Modern mortar systems are increasingly automated and integrated with fire-control systems, making them essential in both conventional and asymmetric warfare. The surge in demand is driven by evolving military doctrines, modernization initiatives, and the necessity for mobile and responsive indirect fire support across various defense platforms.

 

Strategic Importance (2024–2030)

The mortar system market has gained renewed strategic relevance amid rising geopolitical tensions, especially in Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and parts of Asia. Governments are expanding defense budgets to enhance national security infrastructure, with a marked focus on advanced artillery and indirect fire support systems. Mortar systems, particularly those with automated fire-control capabilities and modular calibers , are becoming indispensable for agile warfare tactics, rapid deployment forces, and urban conflict zones.

Moreover, the integration of network-centric warfare elements—such as real-time geospatial data sharing, drone-guided targeting, and digital command systems—is transforming traditional mortar systems into smart artillery units. This transformation significantly expands their tactical use in both frontline and support roles.

 

Key Stakeholders in the Ecosystem

The mortar system market includes a diverse array of stakeholders such as:

• Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) : Companies designing and producing the mortar tubes, fire-control systems, and munitions.

• Defense Ministries and Military Organizations : The primary end-users responsible for procurement and deployment.

• System Integrators : Firms specializing in combining mortars with command & control (C2) networks, vehicles, and AI-based targeting systems.

• Private Defense Contractors and R&D Labs : Innovators driving technological enhancements and product customization.

• Allied Government Agencies : NATO, UN peacekeeping forces, and other coalitions that rely on standardized, interoperable systems for multinational operations.

• Defense Investors and Think Tanks : Entities monitoring defense procurement trends and allocating capital towards modernization and innovation initiatives.

 

Macro Forces Shaping the Market

Several high-impact macro forces are shaping the trajectory of the mortar system market:

• Military Modernization Programs : Countries like India, Poland, and Saudi Arabia are aggressively pursuing artillery modernization, prioritizing lighter, smarter, and longer-range mortar systems.

• Urban Warfare Trends : With increasing conflict in urban and semi-urban settings, the need for compact and highly deployable indirect fire weapons is growing.

• Technological Convergence : Integration of mortars with unmanned systems, GPS-guided projectiles, and AI-driven fire control will redefine operational capabilities.

• Budget Reallocations and Geopolitics : Defense allocations are seeing a shift from manpower-heavy to tech-enabled platforms, a trend further catalyzed by conflicts such as the Ukraine war.

As global security dynamics become increasingly unpredictable, mortar systems are poised to remain a core element of military preparedness—offering scalability, strategic reach, and rapid deployability .

 

Market Segmentation And Forecast Scope

The global mortar system market is structured around four core dimensions: By Caliber , By Component , By Platform , and By Region . These segmentation layers reflect the tactical, operational, and technological diversity in mortar system design, deployment, and modernization strategies across global defense markets.

By Caliber

• Light Caliber (60mm and below)

• Medium Caliber (61mm to 81mm)

• Heavy Caliber (82mm and above)

Heavy caliber mortars dominated the market in 2024 , accounting for over 42% of total system sales , due to their superior range, lethality, and versatility in both mounted and dismounted operations. They are widely used in mechanized infantry and motorized brigades.

Light and medium calibers are gaining traction in rapid deployment forces, especially within special operations and urban infantry units, owing to their portability and reduced recoil profiles.

 

By Component

• Mortar Tubes

• Baseplates and Bipods

• Fire Control Systems (FCS)

• Ammunition

• Mobility Platforms / Mounting Kits

The fire control systems (FCS) segment is forecast to be the fastest-growing during the period of 2024–2030 , with an anticipated CAGR exceeding 8.5% , driven by demand for digitized targeting, GPS-enabled trajectory optimization, and integration with C4ISR networks.

Ammunition sales remain a steady revenue generator due to recurring demand, lifecycle restocking, and continuous innovation in precision-guided mortar munitions.

 

By Platform

• Man-Portable Systems

• Vehicle-Mounted Systems

• Autonomous Mortar Units

Vehicle-mounted mortar systems captured a significant share of the market in 2024, particularly in NATO countries and the Middle East. These systems offer high mobility, reload speed, and crew protection, making them ideal for both defensive and offensive postures.

Autonomous mortar units —though currently niche—are expected to expand, leveraging AI for route planning, target engagement, and threat detection.

 

By Region

• North America

• Europe

• Asia Pacific

• Latin America

• Middle East & Africa (MEA)

Europe led the global mortar system market in 2024 , primarily driven by the ongoing war-readiness upgrades and cross-border tensions involving NATO member states. Countries like Poland, Finland, and Ukraine have significantly expanded their procurement cycles.

Asia Pacific is projected to emerge as the fastest-growing region from 2024 to 2030, fueled by rising military budgets in India, China, and South Korea , alongside regional disputes and border reinforcement programs.

Strategic investments in high- caliber mortars, paired with next-gen FCS and rapid mobility platforms, are reshaping how modern militaries employ indirect firepower across varied combat theatres.

 

Market Trends And Innovation Landscape

The mortar system market is undergoing a transformative shift driven by rapid advancements in defense technology, digitization of battlefield assets, and a global push for precision warfare. From AI-integrated fire-control systems to vehicle-mounted autonomous launchers, the innovation curve is steepening—reshaping the strategic and tactical roles of mortar systems.

1. Digitization of Mortar Fire Control Systems (FCS)

One of the most prominent trends is the digital overhaul of fire-control systems , which now feature GPS integration , laser rangefinders , ballistic computers , and networked communications for instantaneous target acquisition. These advancements enable faster deployment, reduced operator error, and compatibility with joint-force combat platforms.

An expert from a Scandinavian defense OEM noted, “We’re seeing triple the fire accuracy and a 50% reduction in targeting time with AI-supported fire-control systems. The days of compass-and-map mortars are effectively over.”

 

2. Autonomous and Semi-Autonomous Mortar Platforms

Defense ministries are investing heavily in autonomous mortar platforms capable of self-navigation, self- leveling , and AI-powered trajectory correction. These platforms reduce manpower requirements and enhance survivability through minimal exposure.

A notable development is the emergence of unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs) equipped with remote-controlled mortar systems, useful in perimeter defense and asymmetric warfare zones.

 

3. Surge in Precision-Guided Munitions (PGMs)

The demand for smart mortar rounds is growing rapidly. These munitions leverage inertial navigation systems (INS) and GPS correction for precision strikes within 1–2 meters CEP (Circular Error Probable). Precision mortars are becoming essential in urban and hybrid warfare environments, where collateral damage must be minimized.

Companies are experimenting with laser-homing mortar rounds , enabling mid-flight trajectory correction via forward observers or drone-based designators.

 

4. Lightweight Materials and Modular Designs

R&D efforts are increasingly focused on composite alloys and modular designs that reduce the weight of mortar tubes and accessories without compromising durability. This trend caters especially to mobile infantry units and airborne regiments requiring rapid deployment capabilities.

Additionally, universal mounting kits are becoming standard—allowing mortars to be installed on a wide range of vehicles, from tactical trucks to armored carriers.

 

5. Strategic Collaborations and Tech Partnerships

There has been a surge in cross-border defense partnerships aimed at co-developing advanced mortar systems. Examples include:

• Joint ventures between European and Middle Eastern defense firms for customized desert-adapted mortars

• NATO’s collaborative R&D projects on interoperable digital fire-control protocols

• U.S. partnerships with private AI firms to enhance automated targeting systems

According to a defense R&D executive, “We're no longer just selling hardware—we're offering integrated solutions that involve software, communication, and platform mobility. That’s the new frontier for mortar systems.”

 

6. Shift Toward Net-Centric Warfare Integration

Modern mortar systems are increasingly designed for plug-and-play integration into C4ISR networks . This allows seamless data exchange between forward observers, drones, command centers , and fire teams—enabling real-time target designation and synchronized barrages across units.

This net-centric approach transforms mortars from isolated support tools into networked precision fire assets , playing a pivotal role in coordinated multi-domain operations.

As battlefield requirements evolve toward automation, interoperability, and precision, mortar system innovation is no longer optional—it’s existential. The most successful market players will be those who treat mortars as smart, software-enabled systems rather than analog firepower relics.

 

Competitive Intelligence And Benchmarking

The mortar system market is moderately consolidated, with a blend of legacy defense giants and specialized regional manufacturers. Market competition hinges on innovation in fire-control integration, platform flexibility, ammunition capability, and strategic alignment with government procurement programs. Leading companies are prioritizing modularity, interoperability with command-and-control networks, and lightweight mobility solutions to maintain competitiveness.

 

Key Players and Strategic Profiles

1. Elbit Systems Ltd.

Based in Israel, Elbit Systems leads in digital mortar systems, particularly its vehicle-mounted, autonomous Spear Mk2 series. The company has strategically positioned itself by offering complete C4I-integrated solutions. It actively collaborates with NATO and Asia-Pacific nations, offering scalable packages tailored to operational doctrines.

Elbit’s recent defense export agreements to European and Southeast Asian countries underline its growing global footprint and system flexibility.

 

2. BAE Systems

BAE Systems maintains a strong presence in heavy- caliber and vehicle-integrated mortar systems, leveraging its engineering dominance in land platforms. Its systems are often part of broader armored vehicle packages, making BAE a preferred partner in full-spectrum ground force modernization programs.

The company’s emphasis on smart munitions and fire-control software aligns with growing procurement demands for digitized warfare.

 

3. Rheinmetall AG

German-based Rheinmetall is a dominant player in the European defense sector, known for its 82mm and 120mm mortar systems with advanced targeting modules. The company focuses on robust field performance and modularity, allowing mortars to be configured across a variety of tracked and wheeled vehicles.

Rheinmetall also benefits from pan-European R&D initiatives , reinforcing its innovation pipeline and NATO interoperability.

 

4. Thales Group

Thales stands out for its cutting-edge COMMAND-FCS platforms and tactical mortar integration. Its strength lies in software-defined fire-control systems, which it offers alongside mortar units, contributing to superior situational awareness and force synchronization.

Thales systems are particularly prominent in joint-force exercises and multinational coalitions , where command-layer interoperability is crucial.

 

5. Saab AB

Sweden’s Saab offers a diverse portfolio of portable and mounted mortar systems, known for ease of deployment and low logistical footprint . Saab emphasizes recoil-reduction technologies , making it popular among lighter mobile units and special forces.

Its collaboration with Nordic militaries and growing inroads into Asia make Saab a rising challenger in the mobility-driven mortar segment.

 

6. NORINCO (China North Industries Corporation)

NORINCO , a major Chinese defense conglomerate, dominates the domestic market and actively exports to Africa, the Middle East, and South America. Its competitive edge lies in cost-effective solutions and mass production capabilities , offering full system kits with night optics and semi-automated fire support systems.

Despite limited integration into Western supply chains, NORINCO is shaping mortar affordability benchmarks globally.

 

7. General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems (GD-OTS)

An arm of General Dynamics , GD-OTS is a key player in U.S. military modernization, particularly through its 120mm mortar systems and associated guided munition programs . Its products emphasize survivability, modularity, and compatibility with U.S. Army digitization efforts.

GD-OTS's continuous collaboration with DARPA and the U.S. Army Futures Command positions it at the forefront of next-gen mortar development.

 

Competitive Landscape Insights

• North America and Europe are innovation-heavy zones, where vendors compete on integration, automation, and guided munition effectiveness.

• Asia and the Middle East prioritize cost-performance optimization, favoring manufacturers offering ruggedized and modular systems with minimal maintenance cycles.

• Players offering turnkey system integration —combining mortars, targeting optics, and digital comms—are best positioned to dominate defense tenders.

The future of competition will increasingly rest on who controls the ecosystem—not just the hardware. Companies able to bundle firepower with situational awareness and interoperability will become indispensable to modern militaries.

 

Regional Landscape And Adoption Outlook

The adoption of mortar systems varies widely across global regions, shaped by each territory's defense doctrine, budget allocation, operational geography, and geopolitical context. From NATO-driven procurement in Europe to self-reliant indigenous production in Asia, the mortar system market reflects both legacy modernization and strategic realignment efforts.

 

North America

The United States dominates the North American market, driven by large-scale modernization under the Army Futures Command and programs like Integrated Fires Mission Command (IFMC) . U.S. investments are concentrated on digitally networked mortar platforms , smart munitions , and integration with armored carriers like the Stryker and Bradley series .

Canada maintains a smaller but agile procurement strategy, focusing on mobile light mortar systems compatible with its mechanized brigades and peacekeeping roles.

The U.S. Department of Defense is prioritizing AI-enhanced fire-control software and increased deployment flexibility in expeditionary units, signaling a shift toward precision over volume.

 

Europe

Europe emerged as the largest regional market in 2024 , reflecting intensified regional defense strategies following the Ukraine crisis. Countries like Poland, Finland, the Baltic States, and Germany have drastically increased defense spending, with mortar systems identified as quick-deploy indirect fire solutions.

Key regional dynamics include:

• NATO standardization across calibers (81mm and 120mm)

• Heavy adoption of vehicle-mounted autonomous mortars

• Strong emphasis on joint-force interoperability

Eastern European nations have turned to domestic and Israeli suppliers to expedite procurement, bypassing traditional long-cycle EU defense contracts.

 

Asia Pacific

Asia Pacific is the fastest-growing region for mortar systems between 2024 and 2030, underpinned by increasing military expenditure and territorial disputes. Countries such as India, China, South Korea, and Indonesia are actively procuring or locally developing mortar systems tailored to jungle, mountain, and border warfare environments.

• India’s Ordnance Factory Board (OFB) and private-sector players are developing 81mm and 120mm systems compatible with infantry and paramilitary units.

China’s NORINCO is advancing both man-portable and remote-operated platforms with export potential across Africa and Latin America.

• South Korea is focusing on smart indirect fire systems with networked capabilities, as part of its “Kill Chain” doctrine.

The region's procurement is highly influenced by terrain-specific adaptability, low-logistics deployment, and platform-lightweight synergy.

 

Latin America

Latin America’s mortar system market is small but growing , primarily through procurement of cost-effective solutions for border security and counterinsurgency. Countries like Brazil, Colombia, and Chile are investing in 82mm man-portable systems , often as part of broader modernization efforts for national guard and marine infantry units.

Budget constraints and internal security needs shape a low-volume, high-durability procurement pattern. The emphasis here is on simplicity, ruggedness, and operational continuity in challenging terrain.

 

Middle East and Africa (MEA)

The Middle East is an established and growing market for mortar systems, driven by both inter-state deterrence and active regional conflicts. Countries such as Saudi Arabia, UAE, Egypt, and Israel invest heavily in self-propelled mortar systems , often in combination with C4I infrastructure upgrades.

• Israel remains both a manufacturer and an innovation hub for digital fire-control.

• Gulf nations seek vendor flexibility, demanding customized configurations for desert warfare and high-temperature environments.

In Africa , adoption is sporadic, often influenced by UN-backed security assistance or bilateral defense cooperation. Nations like Nigeria and Kenya focus on affordable, off-the-shelf solutions for counterterrorism applications.

There is significant white space in sub-Saharan Africa and parts of Latin America where modernization has yet to begin—offering potential entry points for lower-cost OEMs or strategic partnerships.

From NATO frontlines to South Asian borders and Middle Eastern deserts, mortar systems are evolving in tune with regional combat demands—making geographic customization a vital aspect of market success.

 

End-User Dynamics And Use Case

Mortar systems serve as critical tactical assets across a diverse array of military and paramilitary end users. These systems are favored for their balance of mobility, firepower, and simplicity, and their adoption is closely aligned with the end-user's mission profile—ranging from full-scale warfare to asymmetric counterinsurgency.

 

Key End-User Categories

1. Military Forces (Army, Navy, Marines, Special Forces) These constitute the primary end-users of mortar systems globally. Ground forces deploy mortars at the platoon and company level for rapid indirect fire support. Both lightweight man-portable systems and vehicle-mounted mortars are used, depending on mobility requirements and operational scale.

Special operations units favor portable and air-droppable mortars , typically 60mm to 81mm, enabling stealth fire support without heavy logistical footprints. Naval infantry and marines also utilize mortar systems for amphibious and littoral combat.

 

2. Border Security and Paramilitary Forces In regions prone to infiltration, smuggling, or cross-border skirmishes, paramilitary forces deploy mortars for deterrence, area suppression, and localized dominance . These forces often rely on simplified targeting systems and manual fire coordination , prioritizing robustness and ease-of-use.

Examples include border security forces in India, Turkey, and Colombia , which use mortars for terrain-denial operations along rugged frontier zones.

 

3. Peacekeeping and UN Operations Mortar systems are selectively used in peacekeeping missions , particularly in high-risk zones where conventional artillery would be excessive. 81mm systems are often integrated with light armored vehicles or operated in static bases for base defense and area coverage.

Interoperability and low-collateral damage are key requirements, pushing preference toward guided munitions and systems with precise control mechanisms.

 

4. Defense Academies and R&D Test Units These institutions represent non-combat end users , but they play a critical role in training, doctrinal testing, and system innovation. Mortar systems here are often paired with experimental fire-control algorithms, drone targeting , and digital battlefield simulations to test next-gen artillery concepts.

 

Use Case: Tactical Urban Deployment in South Korea

A prominent tactical use case involved a South Korean rapid deployment battalion that integrated 81mm vehicle-mounted mortars with UAV-assisted fire-control during joint U.S.–ROK exercises near the DMZ in 2023.

In this scenario:

• Mortars were deployed on 4x4 tactical carriers, each equipped with digital fire-control modules.

• Forward reconnaissance drones transmitted GPS-tagged target data in real time to a mobile command unit.

• The mortar platoon achieved a 90% first-round impact accuracy, with deployment-to-fire time under 2 minutes.

• The battalion was able to suppress simulated enemy positions across urban terrain with minimal collateral risk.

This use case showcases how mortar systems, when combined with C4ISR and unmanned platforms, evolve into precision tools even in dense environments—once considered unsuitable for indirect fire.

Mortar systems are no longer merely basic support weapons—they are becoming integrated precision assets aligned with each end user’s operational philosophy, whether for high-end mechanized warfare or localized border enforcement.

 

Recent Developments + Opportunities & Restraints

Recent Developments (Past 2 Years)

• U.S. Army Awards GD-OTS $222 Million Contract for Advanced 120mm Mortar Systems The U.S. Department of Defense signed a major deal with General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems in 2023 to deliver precision-enhanced 120mm mortar systems with automated fire-control integration.

• Elbit Systems Delivers SPEAR Mk2 Autonomous Mortar Platforms to European Client In 2024, Elbit Systems finalized delivery of its fully autonomous vehicle-mounted 120mm mortar systems to a European NATO country, marking a new standard in remote-fire capability.

• Saab and South Korean Defense Firms Sign R&D Agreement for Lightweight Mortars Saab AB partnered with South Korean defense entities in 2023 to co-develop lightweight, air-mobile mortar systems adapted for mountainous and amphibious environments.

• NORINCO Showcases Modular Mortar Variants for Export at Zhuhai Airshow 2024 China’s NORINCO unveiled modular 81mm and 120mm mortar kits for APC integration at the 2024 Zhuhai Airshow , targeting African and South American export markets.

• Poland Integrates Fire-Control System Across Territorial Defense Units In 2023, Poland’s Ministry of Defense began widespread deployment of a standardized digital fire-control system for all 120mm mortar units, improving synchronization with NATO assets.

 

Opportunities

• Integration with AI and C4ISR Systems Smart mortar systems capable of real-time communication with drones, satellites, and forward observers are set to redefine indirect fire operations. OEMs that invest in interoperable platforms will gain a significant edge.

• Emerging Market Expansion Asia, Africa, and Latin America present enormous untapped potential. Localized assembly, offset agreements, and cost-effective solutions could drive rapid adoption in these price-sensitive regions.

• Growth in Precision-Guided Mortar Munitions (PGMMs) As warfare shifts toward urban and hybrid environments, the demand for GPS-guided, low-collateral mortar rounds is projected to spike. Companies offering PGMM compatibility will capture high-value contracts.

 

Restraints

• High Capital Investment for Digital Integration Developing AI-enhanced fire-control systems and precision-guided ammunition demands significant R&D capital, which can limit participation for mid-tier and regional manufacturers.

• Regulatory and Export Constraints Defense sales involving advanced targeting or autonomous capabilities face prolonged export clearance cycles—especially across U.S. and EU jurisdictions—affecting deal velocity and global market penetration.

The mortar system market is pivoting from legacy indirect fire systems to smart, software-integrated warfare platforms. While recent developments confirm the momentum, the next wave of growth will depend on affordability, precision, and cross-platform compatibility.

 

7.1. Report Coverage Table

Report Attribute	Details
Forecast Period	2024 – 2030
Market Size Value in 2024	USD 3.4 Billion
Revenue Forecast in 2030	USD 5.1 Billion
Overall Growth Rate	CAGR of 6.9% (2024 – 2030)
Base Year for Estimation	2024
Historical Data	2019 – 2023
Unit	USD Million, CAGR (2024 – 2030)
Segmentation	By Caliber, By Component, By Platform, By Geography
By Caliber	Light Caliber (≤60mm), Medium Caliber (61–81mm), Heavy Caliber (≥82mm)
By Component	Mortar Tubes, Fire Control Systems, Ammunition, Baseplates & Bipods, Mounting Platforms
By Platform	Man-Portable, Vehicle-Mounted, Autonomous
By Region	North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle East & Africa
Country Scope	U.S., UK, Germany, China, India, Japan, Brazil, etc.
Market Drivers	- Military modernization and digitization - Rising demand for smart indirect fire systems - Tactical necessity in hybrid warfare
Customization Option	Available upon request