Nibe demonstrates Garudastra 120mm vehicle-mounted mortar system at Mhow

New Delhi: Indian defence firm Nibe Limited recently demonstrated its new Garudastra long-range 120mm vehicle-mounted mortar system at the Infantry School in Mhow. The trial proved the system’s ability to provide accurate firepower while being highly mobile on the battlefield.

The Garudastra is mounted on a 4×4 tactical vehicle and uses soft-recoil technology, which allows a heavy 120mm mortar to be fitted to a lightweight platform. The system can engage targets at ranges of seven to ten kilometres and can strike bunkers and fortified positions using a 17kg warhead that can penetrate reinforced concrete.

One of the key capabilities demonstrated was its shoot-and-scoot feature. This will allow the mortar to react quickly before enemy forces detects its location and launch a counterattack. such mobility is increasingly important in modern warfare, where drones surveillance systems and counter-battery radars can quickly identify firing position.

The system also proved its ability to perform multiple rounds simultaneous impact (MRSI) where multiple shells are fired with various angles and trajectories to hit the target simultaneously. It contributes to the surprise factor and makes it harder for enemy forces to react.

Mortars, unlike conventional artillery guns, which are designed for long-range firepower, are usually lighter and more portable, and are better used for supporting infantry in rapidly changing battle conditions. Their fire has a high-arcing trajectory so they can hit targets behind hills, buildings and other obstacles.

Garudastra can fire between 12 and 16 rounds per minute in burst mode and maintain a sustained firing rate of three to four rounds per minute. It allows troops to quickly engage enemy positions and to provide continuous fire support during operations.

The mortar system also can be linked to command and control networks, battle management systems and intelligence platforms. It can also take real-time targeting data from drones, radars and forward observers, enabling troops to react more rapidly to emerging threats.

Another important feature is its ability to use precision-guided ammunition. GPS-guided shells can land on coordinates chosen in advance, while laser-guided munitions can home in on targets designated by soldiers on the ground or by drones. These capabilities improve accuracy and minimize the number of rounds to destroy a target.

As part of efforts to boost domestic defence production in India, the Garudastra has been developed in partnership with a foreign original equipment manufacturer. Nibe Limited said the system supports the operational needs of the Indian armed forces and the government’s Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.