On 7-8 October, the mortar specialist Hirtenberger Defence Systems held its biannual product presentation and live firing. Among the guests were procurement delegations and Special Forces soldiers from customer and interested nations, including Germany, Austria, Denmark, the Netherlands, Kuwait, Lithuania, and others. Dr. Lt.Gen. (ret.) Jim Storr, technical writer and instructor at military schools opened the event with a presentation of mortars in combat. With regard to the products, he said: "In the Special Forces there are certain requirements for a light and precise mortar." Furthermore, he analysed the battlefield and the need for high-angle fire. "Accuracy and consistency will win the battle," he said. He emphasised the psychological effect of surprise and shock through indirect fire. It was important for him that indirect fire is available to the lowest level (group/platoon). This differentiates mortar from artillery. He underlined the importance of mortar by his statement: "The British Army used the mortar (51mm) to such an extent that they ran out of ammunition. Mortar, due to the safety distances (1:2) and ROE (Rules of Engagement), can be used faster and more flexibly than artillery."
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