For more than 500 years, mortars have played a vital role in military operations. While the technology has evolved, the core concept has remained largely unchanged — until now. Global Ordnance’s Scorpion Mobile Mortar System, this week’s weapon of the week, is redefining how modern forces deploy indirect firepower.
What makes the system so unique?
Mounted on a Polaris 6×6 MRZR, although it is vehicle agnostic, the Scorpion is an 81 mm mortar system that combines automation, speed and digital precision. The company calls it the world’s fastest automated and fully digital mortar system.
“The system right now has 48 rounds on it, and it can emplace and displace in less than 30 seconds,” James Knight, senior manager for defense systems and energetics at Global Ordnance, said.
That speed is critical. Traditional mortar teams often require 3-7 personnel. The Scorpion needs only two. Its rapid deployment and mobility allow operators to fire and relocate before enemy counter-battery fire can respond.
“Before those rounds even land, they’ll be moving on into a safe position,” Knight said.
The Scorpion’s baseplate is another innovation. Unlike traditional mortars that rely on spaded plates to absorb recoil, the Scorpion uses a non-seeding base plate. This allows it to fire from a variety of surfaces, including concrete, without digging in.
“There’s no other base plate like it in the world,” Knight said. “It helps the system be able to employ in any environment.”
What can the Scorpion do?
At the heart of the Scorpion is a modern fire control system. Operators can auto-aim, re-aim and sequence targets using a digital interface. The system supports up to 1,000 pre-mission targets and can integrate real-time data from forward observers, headquarters or drones.
This level of automation enables faster targeting and greater accuracy, even in dynamic combat environments. The system’s adaptability also stands out. It can be mounted on a wide range of vehicles, from Humvees to Toyota Hilux pickups.
“If it can carry the system, it can go on it,” Knight said. “We tailor the solution to the platform.”
While the U.S. Department of Defense has not yet adopted the Scorpion, other nations have. Saudi Arabia has taken delivery of 100 Alakran units — a variant of the Scorpion — mounted on Toyota Land Cruisers. Ukraine also operates eight Scorpion systems integrated into Bars-8 4×4 armored personnel carriers.
With its blend of speed, automation and modularity, the Scorpion Mobile Mortar System represents a significant leap forward in battlefield fire support. It enables troops to accomplish more with fewer personnel, while staying one step ahead of the enemy.
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