ARCA Mortar Ammunition: 60, 81 and 120 mm
Last updated: 30 July 2026
Which mortar rounds does ARCA make? ARCA’s catalogue lists 60 mm, 81 mm and 120 mm mortar ammunition — the most widely used standard mortar calibres in NATO armies and worldwide, each serving a different tactical need.
ARCA’s mortar family
Mortars are among the closest, quickest fire-support tools available to infantry. ARCA produces the three NATO-standard calibres: 60 mm, 81 mm and 120 mm. Each answers a different tactical need.
| Calibre | Level | Characteristic |
|---|---|---|
| 60 mm | Infantry / squad-platoon level | Close support, light and portable |
| 81 mm | Battalion support weapon | Medium range, balanced power |
| 120 mm | Heavy mortar | Largest calibre, highest effect and range |
What each calibre does
60 mm is light and man-portable, giving close support at squad-platoon level. 81 mm is the standard battalion support weapon, balancing range and portability. 120 mm is the largest calibre, delivering the highest effect and range, usually vehicle-mounted or in a fixed position.
Types of mortar ammunition
Mortar rounds vary by role: high-explosive (HE) for direct effect; illumination for night visibility; smoke for concealment; and training rounds for exercises. This page offers only general, encyclopaedic information — no filling or manufacturing detail.
Frequently asked questions
Which mortar rounds does ARCA make?
ARCA’s catalogue lists 60 mm, 81 mm and 120 mm mortar ammunition — the three most widely used standard mortar calibres in NATO armies and worldwide.
What is mortar ammunition?
A mortar is a light, portable artillery weapon delivering high-angle fire at short range. Mortar ammunition is the round fired from it, usually carrying a high-explosive warhead.
What’s the difference between 60, 81 and 120 mm?
Mainly calibre and the resulting effect, range and portability. 60 mm is light and infantry-level; 81 mm is a battalion support weapon; 120 mm is the heaviest, most powerful class.
Does ARCA export mortar ammunition?
Mortar rounds are part of ARCA’s range, and artillery and mortar ammunition make up much of its exports. Unpublished customer details should not be guessed.
What types of mortar ammunition exist?
High-explosive, illumination, smoke and training rounds are the main types, and ARCA can produce variants for these roles.
Sources
- ARCA Defense official website — Products (July 2026).
- General military references on mortar systems.
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