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French Army Integrates 120mm Mortars with Serval Vehicles for Fire Support.
As part of the French Army’s ongoing transformation, the 3rd Marine Infantry Parachute Regiment (3e RPIMa) has emerged as a pioneer within the 11th Parachute Brigade (BP). It is the first regiment to combine 120mm heavy mortars with the mobility and protection capabilities provided by Serval light armored vehicles. This innovative configuration enables airborne infantry units to enhance emergency fire support close to contact zones, increasing their responsiveness on operational theaters.
The 3e RPIMa's integration of 120mm mortars with Serval vehicles boosts mobility, protection, and firepower for rapid response in modern operations (Picture source: French MoD)
The 120mm mortar is a key tactical asset, offering a maximum range of 13,000 meters with rocket-assisted projectiles. Operated by a crew of six, it can sustain a firing rate of six rounds per minute or a rapid rate of up to 20 rounds per minute. Its firepower, combined with the Serval’s mobility, provides adaptable and responsive fire support, even in challenging environments.
The 120mm mortar, including the MO 120 RT model developed in France since 1973, is designed for indirect fire support to infantry units. It can launch explosive rounds up to 12,850 meters with rocket-assisted munitions or 8,140 meters with standard rounds. The system can also fire smoke and illumination shells, offering versatility in various tactical scenarios. Typically towed by vehicles like the VAB or Serval, the mortar allows for rapid deployment and high mobility on the battlefield. Its use is aimed at delivering effective indirect fire support to neutralize enemy positions, obscure movements, or illuminate targets, thus enhancing the operational capacity of infantry units.
The use of heavy mortars within infantry regiments was gradually phased out in the 2000s, transferring this capability to artillery regiments. However, increasing demands for immediate fire support have prompted a reevaluation under the Military Programming Law (LPM) 2024–2030. The plan includes creating 21 120mm mortar sections in infantry regiments, restoring their autonomy in indirect fire support. Meanwhile, artillery units will receive integrated systems such as the Mortiers Embarqués pour l’Appui au Contact (MEPAC) mounted on Griffon vehicles.
The 120mm mortar, including the MO 120 RT model developed in France in 1973, is designed for indirect fire support to infantry units. (Picture source: French MoD)
For the 3e RPIMa, this shift is more than a return to previous capabilities. The novel integration of 120mm mortars with Serval vehicles represents a strategic evolution. This combination enhances the mobility, protection, and firepower of the Parachute Infantry’s Reconnaissance and Support Company (CEA), offering greater operational flexibility crucial in modern engagements where rapid reaction is essential.
Reintroduced in 2024, the 3e RPIMa’s heavy mortar section is advancing through intensive exercises conducted at various national training grounds. According to a message shared on Instagram, the regiment emphasized its teams’ commitment to mastering this capability. An upcoming live-fire campaign will conclude a comprehensive training cycle, solidifying the skills developed.
As a leading force in the transformation of the 11th BP, the 3e RPIMa exemplifies the evolution of airborne infantry capabilities. This tactical innovation meets the demands of contemporary conflicts, where speed, adaptability, and protection are critical.
Integrating the 120mm mortar with the Serval is a relevant development because it combines the mortar’s firepower with the mobility and protection offered by the light armored vehicle. The Serval enables rapid mortar deployment, a crucial feature for operations requiring immediate fire support. Its versatility and ability to function in difficult environments also ensure mobile and responsive support on demanding theaters. This integration enhances infantry units’ autonomy by providing powerful indirect fire capabilities while improving their ability to reposition swiftly to meet changing battlefield requirements.