Israel‘s Elbit Systems has developed a new version of its 120 mm SPEAR mortar. on board Oshkosh‘s Joint Light Tactical Vehicle (JLTV). The reverse-operated mortar was successfully adapted to the light vehicle, gaining new tactical flexibility. Thanks to the reversing system, the mortar can be used in such vehicles.

This mortar is an evolution of the CARDOM, of which more than 1,000 are used by Israelis and Americans.

The SPEAR mortar has electronic aiming and tracking systems achieving very high rate of fire and accuracy. It can easily interface with C4I systems, gaining access to data on friendly and enemy forces in the area of action.

The targeting system analyses the ballistic data and the weapon automatically sets elevation and azimuth to the appropriate data to hit the target. As for the JLTV, it is the product of a project to replace the High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle (HMMWV). The JLTV can carry a larger payload and has advanced electronic systems and is mine resistant.