Mortar Rounds -- Comprehensive Ordnance Database

Classification: UNCLASSIFIED // OPEN SOURCE Last Updated: 2026-03-28 Scope: Russian/Soviet mortar rounds (all calibers) and Western mortar rounds in Ukrainian service Purpose: EOD identification, render-safe reference, and hazard assessment

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Table of Contents

1. 82mm Mortar Rounds (Soviet/Russian)
2. 120mm Mortar Rounds (Soviet/Russian)
3. 160mm Mortar Rounds (Soviet/Russian)
4. 240mm Mortar Rounds (Soviet/Russian)
5. 81mm Mortar Rounds (Western/NATO -- Ukraine)
6. 120mm Mortar Rounds (Western/NATO -- Ukraine)

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82mm Mortar Rounds

O-832 -- High-Explosive Fragmentation

Identification

• Designation(s): O-832 (Cyrillic: О-832); complete round designation VO-832
• Type: High-explosive fragmentation (HE-FRAG) mortar bomb
• Category: Indirect fire, fin-stabilized
• Country of Origin: Soviet Union
• Manufacturer: Multiple Soviet-era state arsenals; produced under license in China (Type 42), Romania, Bulgaria, and others
• In Service With: Russia, Ukraine, China, Syria, Iraq, Afghanistan, Vietnam, Cuba, Angola, Egypt, India, and 40+ former Soviet client states
• Export Status: Massively exported; license-produced in China, Romania, Bulgaria (Arcus, Kintex, Arsenal), Croatia, and others

Physical Characteristics

• Caliber: 82mm
• Length (projectile): ~328mm (body only); ~415mm with fuze
• Weight (complete round): ~3.1 kg (projectile with fuze); ~3.4 kg complete with propellant
• Body Material: Cast iron (grey cast iron, brittle fracture pattern)
• Warhead Type: HE-FRAG
• Explosive Fill: TNT (primary), or Amatol (80/20 AN/TNT mix), or Schneiderite/TNT mixture
• Explosive Fill Weight: ~0.4 kg (400g)
• Fuzing: Point-detonating (PD) nose fuze
  • Compatible Fuzes: M-1, M-4, M-5, M-6, MP-82, AR-MD (Bulgarian replacement)
  • Arming Mechanism: Setback-actuated; on firing, acceleration forces overcome retaining spring, releasing arming sleeve. No centrifugal arming (smoothbore weapon).
  • UXO State: If fuze has armed (setback occurred) but failed to function on impact, the striker is held only by the creep spring. Extremely sensitive to disturbance.
• Safe & Arm Device: Setback detonator with creep spring retention

Fin Assembly

• Type: 6 stamped steel fins, spot-welded to hollow tail shaft
• Propellant Configuration: Boat-shaped (horseshoe) increments clipped between fins
• Ignition Cartridge: Zh-832 (Ж-832) -- percussion-primed shotgun-type cartridge in tail tube
• Propellant Increments: Z-832 (З-832); Charge 0 = cartridge only; Charge 6 = cartridge + 6 increments
• Propellant Type: Nitrocellulose-based stick/sheet propellant
• Secondary Hazard: Loose propellant increments are flammable; degraded propellant may auto-ignite

Color and Markings

• Peacetime: Body painted grey; black stenciled markings (designation, lot, year, factory)
• Wartime: Unpainted (sand-scoured steel), heavy grease coating, minimal stenciling
• Bands: None for standard HE
• Fuze: Alloy or brown/black bakelite body

Visual ID Features

• Teardrop-shaped body with rounded ogive
• 6-fin tail assembly (key identifier vs. O-832D which has 10 fins)
• Boat-shaped propellant increments visible between fins
• Single nose fuze well
• No rotating band (smoothbore weapon); smooth gas check band at body max diameter

Commonly Confused With

• O-832D/O-832DU: Same body shape but 10-fin tail and ring-shaped propellant increments
• 81mm NATO mortar rounds: Similar size but different fin count, fuze type, and markings
• Chinese Type 42 (82mm): Near-identical clone with Chinese characters

Dud Behavior

• Typical orientation: Nose-down, partially buried at 30-60 degree angle; tail fins may be visible above ground
• Common failure modes: Fuze striker did not release (insufficient setback from low charge); fuze detonator failed; soft ground absorbed impact without triggering PD fuze
• Critical warning: Armed fuze with failed striker release -- creep spring is only remaining safety. Any vibration, tilt, or handling may cause detonation.

EOD Hazard Warnings

• NEVER attempt to remove fuze from a dud mortar
• Fuze sensitivity: PD fuzes (M-1, M-4, M-6) are extremely impact-sensitive when armed
• Cast iron body produces irregular, razor-sharp fragments at high velocity
• Propellant increments: If present, represent fire and deflagration hazard; degraded propellant may be hypersensitive
• Minimum standoff for RSP: Per unit SOP; treat as maximum hazard
• Buried rounds: May have armed fuze resting against subsurface obstruction
• HD 1.1 mass detonation hazard when fuzed

Countries in Service / Combat Use

• WWII (Eastern Front), Korea, Vietnam, Soviet-Afghan War, Iran-Iraq War, Chechen Wars, Syrian Civil War, Russo-Ukrainian War (2014-present), Libyan Civil War, Ethiopian Civil War, Yemen

Sources

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O-832D -- High-Explosive Fragmentation (Improved)

Identification

• Designation(s): O-832D (Cyrillic: О-832Д); complete round VO-832D
• Type: HE-FRAG mortar bomb (improved ballistics variant)
• Country of Origin: Soviet Union

Physical Characteristics

• Caliber: 82mm
• Length (projectile): ~330mm (body); ~420mm with fuze
• Weight (complete round): ~3.1 kg (projectile with fuze)
• Body Material: Cast iron
• Explosive Fill: TNT (primary)
• Explosive Fill Weight: ~0.4 kg (400g)
• Fuzing: Same fuze family as O-832 (M-1, M-4, M-5, M-6, MP-82)

Key Differences from O-832

• 10-fin tail assembly (vs. 6 fins on O-832)
• Ring/doughnut-shaped propellant increments (vs. boat-shaped on O-832)
• Improved ballistic stability and slightly different range tables
• Not interchangeable with O-832 propellant increments

Fin Assembly

• 10 stamped steel fins spot-welded to tail shaft
• Ring-shaped propellant increments stacked on tail tube
• Ignition cartridge: Zh-832D

Dud Behavior / EOD Hazards

• Identical hazards to O-832
• 10-fin tail may be more visible when protruding from soft ground
• Same fuze sensitivity concerns

Sources

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O-832DU -- High-Explosive Fragmentation (Universal)

Identification

• Designation(s): O-832DU (Cyrillic: О-832ДУ); complete round VO-832DU
• Type: HE-FRAG mortar bomb (universal variant, current production)
• Country of Origin: Soviet Union / Russia
• Manufacturer: Produced by Arcus (Bulgaria), Kintex (Bulgaria), Arsenal (Bulgaria), Romarm (Romania), and others

Physical Characteristics

• Caliber: 82mm
• Length (projectile): ~330mm body; ~361mm total (Romarm spec)
• Weight (complete round): 3.1 kg (with fuze)
• Body Material: Cast iron or forged steel (varies by manufacturer; modern Bulgarian production uses steel)
• Explosive Fill: TNT, Composition B, or A-IX-2 (RDX/wax) depending on manufacturer
• Explosive Fill Weight: 0.4 kg (400g)
• Fuzing: M-6, AR-MD, MEF-1 (modern Bulgarian production)
• Compatible Weapons: 82-BM-37 (Mod 1937), 82-PM-41 (Mod 1941), Mod 1943, 2B9 Vasilek, 2B14 Podnos, M82

Performance

• Maximum Range: ~4,500m (Charge 6 with standard increments); ~4,255m (Bulgarian HE 82 FRAG)
• Minimum Range: ~100m (Charge 0)
• Muzzle Velocity (max charge): ~211 m/s
• Lethal Radius: ~18-25m (fragmentation)
• Self-destruction: Fuze self-destruct at ~10 seconds (some modern fuzes)

Fin Assembly

• 10 fins (same as O-832D)
• Ring/doughnut propellant increments
• 1 primary cartridge + 5-6 increment charges
• Propellant: Nitrocellulose-based

Color and Markings

• Body: Grey or olive drab
• Markings: Black stenciled designation, lot number, year, factory mark
• Modern Bulgarian production: May have different factory markings but retain Soviet color scheme

Sources

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D-832 -- Smoke (White Phosphorus)

Identification

• Designation(s): D-832 (Cyrillic: Д-832); variants D-832DU
• Type: Bursting smoke (WP) mortar bomb
• Country of Origin: Soviet Union

Physical Characteristics

• Caliber: 82mm
• Length: Similar to O-832 (~328mm body)
• Weight: ~3.0-3.2 kg
• Body Material: Cast iron with adapter in ogive for smoke fill
• Fill: Yellow/white phosphorus (WP) smoke agent + small TNT burster charge
• Fuzing: Same PD fuzes as O-832 family (M-1, M-4, M-6)

Fin Assembly

• 6 or 10 fins depending on variant (D-832 = 6 fins; D-832DU = 10 fins)
• Propellant increments: Z-832 (boat-shaped for 6-fin); ring-shaped for 10-fin variant
• Ignition cartridge: Zh-832

Color and Markings

• Body: Grey
• Identification Band: Half-inch-wide BLACK band just below bourrelet
• Markings: Black stenciled with "Д" (D) prefix preceding numerals
• Key Visual Distinction: Adapter visible in ogive (fuze well area differs from HE round)

Visual ID Features

• Black band below bourrelet is PRIMARY identifier vs. HE rounds
• "D" prefix in stenciled designation
• Ogive adapter piece visible at nose
• Otherwise same external profile as HE variant

Dud Behavior

• WP fill makes duds EXTREMELY hazardous -- WP ignites spontaneously on exposure to air
• Cracked or corroded body may allow WP to seep and auto-ignite
• Same fuze sensitivity as HE variants
• FIRE AND TOXIC HAZARD: WP burns at ~1,300C; produces dense toxic P2O5 smoke

EOD Hazard Warnings

• MAXIMUM CAUTION: WP will ignite spontaneously if body is breached
• TOXIC: WP smoke (phosphorus pentoxide) is acutely toxic by inhalation
• Do not attempt to move or handle -- treat WP mortar duds as maximum hazard
• WP residue may be present on ground surface around dud (look for waxy yellow deposits)
• Burn injuries from WP are extremely severe and difficult to treat
• HD 1.2 secondary hazard; fire and toxic fume risk

Countries in Service / Combat Use

• Used extensively wherever Soviet 82mm mortars deployed; confirmed in Syria, Ukraine, Libya

Sources

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S-832S -- Illumination

Identification

• Designation(s): S-832S (Cyrillic: С-832С)
• Type: Base-ejection illumination mortar bomb
• Country of Origin: Soviet Union

Physical Characteristics

• Caliber: 82mm
• Length: Similar to O-832
• Weight: ~3.0-3.4 kg (estimated; slightly lighter or comparable to HE round)
• Body Material: Steel tube (thinner than HE body -- functions as canister, not fragmentation)
• Fill: Parachute-suspended illuminating composition (magnesium/sodium nitrate flare)
• Fuzing: Time fuze (base-ejection mechanism); T-1 or similar mechanical time fuze
• Arming: Setback-actuated; time fuze burns after set delay, then base charge ejects flare canister

Function

• Base-ejection at preset altitude
• Parachute deploys, suspending illuminant canister
• Illumination: ~400,000 candlepower for 25-30 seconds burn time
• Effective illumination altitude: 200-400m

Color and Markings

• Body: Dark grey
• Identification Band: WHITE band below base of gas check bands
• Markings: Black stenciled with "С" (S) prefix

Dud Behavior

• If time fuze fails, round impacts as ballistic projectile
• Unfired illuminant composition is a FIRE HAZARD (magnesium-based; burns intensely)
• Parachute/canister may separate from body
• Unexpelled flare canister inside intact body is still a fire/burn hazard

EOD Hazard Warnings

• Illuminant composition: magnesium-based, burns at ~2,000C; cannot be extinguished with water
• Parachute cord entanglement hazard
• If fuze functioned but flare failed to ignite, hot flare canister may still be viable
• Less blast hazard than HE but severe thermal hazard
• HD 1.3 -- mass fire hazard

Sources

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82mm Incendiary Round

Identification

• Designation(s): Z-832 (Cyrillic: З-832) / incendiary variant (limited documentation)
• Type: Incendiary mortar bomb
• Country of Origin: Soviet Union
• Note: The D-832 WP smoke round also served in an incendiary role due to WP's burning properties. A dedicated thermite-based incendiary round for 82mm mortars is referenced in some Soviet manuals but has limited OSINT documentation.

Physical Characteristics

• Caliber: 82mm
• Weight: ~3.0-3.3 kg (estimated)
• Fill: Incendiary composition (thermite or KS-type incendiary mixture) or WP
• Fuzing: PD fuze (same family as HE rounds)

EOD Hazard Warnings

• Treat as combined fire and explosive hazard
• Incendiary fill may be pyrophoric (self-igniting on air exposure)
• Same fuze sensitivity as HE variants

Sources

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120mm Mortar Rounds

OF-843 / OF-843A / OF-843B -- High-Explosive Fragmentation

Identification

• Designation(s): OF-843 (original), OF-843A (improved), OF-843B (current production); complete round VOF-843B
• GRAU Index: 53-OF-843 series
• Type: HE-FRAG mortar bomb
• Category: Indirect fire, fin-stabilized, semi-fixed round
• Country of Origin: Soviet Union
• Manufacturer: Multiple Soviet-era state arsenals; license-produced in Bulgaria (Arcus, Kintex), Romania, China, Iran, and others
• In Service With: Russia, Ukraine, Syria, Iraq, Iran, Egypt, India, Pakistan, China, Vietnam, Cuba, Angola, Ethiopia, and 50+ countries
• Export Status: One of the most widely exported mortar rounds in history

Physical Characteristics

• Caliber: 120mm
• Length (complete round): ~660-674mm
• Weight (complete round): ~16 kg (35.3 lbs)
• Body Material: Thick-walled cast iron (OF-843, OF-843A); may be forged steel in some production variants (OF-843B)
• Warhead Type: HE-FRAG
• Explosive Fill: TD-50 (50/50 TNT/dinitronaphthalene), or Amatol (TNT/ammonium nitrate), or TNT
• Explosive Fill Weight: 1.4-1.6 kg (varies by manufacturer and fill type)
• Fuzing: Point-detonating nose fuze with optional delay
  • Compatible Fuzes: M-12 (current standard for OF-843B), M-1, M-4, M-6, GVM, GVMZ, GVMZ-1
  • M-12 Fuze Settings: Super-quick (instantaneous) or Delay
  • GVMZ/GVMZ-1: Instantaneous and delay settings
  • GVM, M-1, M-4: Instantaneous action only
  • Arming Mechanism: Setback-actuated (acceleration on firing overcomes retaining spring)
  • UXO State: Armed fuze held by creep spring only; extremely sensitive
• Safe & Arm Device: Setback arming; no centrifugal component

Fin Assembly and Propulsion

• OF-843 / OF-843A: 12 fins, 6 gas check bands (grooves)
• OF-843B: 10 fins, 5 gas check bands -- KEY IDENTIFIER for variant distinction
• Stabilizing tail boom with 18 flash holes
• Ignition Cartridge: Percussion-primed cartridge in tail tube
• Propellant: 1 primary charge + 6 increment charges (ring-shaped)
• Propellant Weight: 0.435 kg total
• Charge Settings: Charge 0 (primary only) through Charge 6 (all increments)
• Muzzle Velocity (Charge 6): 274 m/s
• Maximum Range (Charge 6): 5,850m
• Secondary Hazard: Nitrocellulose propellant increments -- flammable, may degrade to unstable state over time

Body Construction

• Very thick cast iron walls for maximum fragmentation
• Produces large, irregular fragments upon detonation
• Fragment velocity: ~1,000-1,500 m/s at detonation
• Lethal radius: ~30m
• Blast and fragmentation effects extend significantly beyond lethal radius

Color and Markings

• Body: Light grey or dark grey
• Markings: Black stenciled (designation, lot, year, factory mark)
• Fuze well adapter visible at nose
• Gas check bands: Machined grooves at max diameter for gas sealing

Visual ID Features

• Large teardrop-shaped body (~120mm diameter, ~660mm long)
• Count fins: 12 fins = OF-843/843A; 10 fins = OF-843B
• Count gas check bands: 6 = OF-843/843A; 5 = OF-843B
• 18 flash holes in tail boom
• Single nose fuze well
• Ring-shaped propellant increments on tail tube

Commonly Confused With

• Western 120mm mortar rounds (M933/M934): Similar caliber but different body shape, fuze, markings, and fin configuration
• OF-34/OF-38: Modern Russian 120mm rounds with steel bodies; heavier fragmentation
• Chinese Type 120mm clones: Near-identical appearance with Chinese markings

Dud Behavior

• Typical orientation: Nose-down at 30-70 degree angle; significant ground penetration due to 16 kg mass
• Common failure modes: Fuze did not arm (low charge/short range); PD fuze failed to function on soft ground; delay fuze failed after penetration; fuze detonator malfunction
• Critical warning: Heavy round may penetrate deeply into soft soil, making location difficult; armed fuze at depth is maximum hazard
• Tail boom and fins typically visible above surface when nose-buried

EOD Hazard Warnings

• MAXIMUM HAZARD -- 16 kg round with up to 1.6 kg HE
• NEVER rotate, tilt, or attempt to extract from ground
• PD fuze is impact-sensitive when armed; any mechanical shock may initiate
• Delay-set fuze may not have completed its delay cycle (could detonate at any time after impact)
• Cast iron body: produces extremely lethal fragmentation pattern
• Propellant charges: fire hazard, may deflagrate violently
• Minimum recommended evacuation distance per unit SOP
• Hazard Classification: UN 0409 (fuze), UN 0414 (propellant); HD 1.1 (complete round)

Countries in Service / Combat Use

• WWII (limited late-war), Korea, Vietnam, Soviet-Afghan War, Iran-Iraq War, Chechen Wars, Syrian Civil War, Russo-Ukrainian War (2014-present), Libyan Civil War, Ethiopian Civil War, Nagorno-Karabakh, Yemen

Sources

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3OF49 (OF-49) -- Enhanced Fragmentation

Identification

• Designation(s): 3OF49 (Cyrillic: 3ОФ49); used in complete rounds 3VOF54 and 3VOF54-1
• Type: HE-FRAG mortar bomb (enhanced fragmentation, modern)
• Country of Origin: Russia
• In Service With: Russia (primary); exported to select clients

Physical Characteristics

• Caliber: 120mm
• Length: ~660-680mm (complete round)
• Weight: ~16-17 kg (estimated; similar to OF-843 series)
• Body Material: Forged steel (improved fragmentation vs. cast iron OF-843)
• Explosive Fill: A-IX-2 (RDX/aluminum/wax mixture) -- significantly more powerful than TNT/Amatol
• Explosive Fill Weight: ~1.5-2.0 kg (estimated; enhanced fill compared to OF-843)
• Fuzing:
  • 3VOF54: Point-detonating fuze with delay option
  • 3VOF54-1: Proximity (airburst) fuze -- significantly increased lethality against exposed personnel
• Arming Mechanism: Setback-actuated; proximity variant has electronic arming

Key Differences from OF-843

• Steel body instead of cast iron: more uniform, controlled fragmentation pattern
• A-IX-2 explosive fill: higher detonation velocity (~8,400 m/s vs. ~6,900 m/s for TNT)
• Available with proximity fuze (3VOF54-1) for airburst employment
• Represents significant lethality upgrade over OF-843 series

EOD Hazard Warnings

• A-IX-2 explosive fill is more energetic than TNT -- greater blast and fragmentation
• Proximity fuze variant: ELECTRONIC FUZE -- potential RF/EMI sensitivity
• Do not use radio transmitters near proximity-fuzed variants
• Steel body: more lethal fragmentation than cast iron (higher velocity, more uniform fragments)
• Same general mortar dud hazards as OF-843

Sources

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D-843A -- Smoke (White Phosphorus)

Identification

• Designation(s): D-843A (Cyrillic: Д-843А)
• Type: Bursting smoke (WP) mortar bomb
• Country of Origin: Soviet Union

Physical Characteristics

• Caliber: 120mm
• Length: ~660mm (similar to OF-843)
• Weight: ~16-17 kg
• Body Material: Cast iron
• Fill: Yellow/white phosphorus (WP) + TNT burster charge
• Fuzing: GVM, GVMZ, GVMZ-1, M-4

Color and Markings

• Body: Grey
• Identification Band: Black band below bourrelet
• Markings: "Д" (D) prefix in stenciled designation

EOD Hazard Warnings

• WP HAZARD: Same extreme fire and toxic hazard as 82mm D-832
• WP auto-ignites on air exposure; burns at ~1,300C
• Toxic P2O5 fumes
• Do not handle or move; maximum standoff
• Cracked/corroded body may already be leaking WP
• Packing: 2 complete rounds per wooden box, ~44 kg per box

Sources

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S-843 -- Illumination

Identification

• Designation(s): S-843 (Cyrillic: С-843); GRAU: 53-S-843
• Type: Base-ejection illumination mortar bomb
• Country of Origin: Soviet Union

Physical Characteristics

• Caliber: 120mm
• Length: ~570mm
• Weight: ~16-17 kg (estimated)
• Body Material: Steel tube (canister construction)
• Fill: Parachute-retarded illumination flare (magnesium/sodium nitrate composition)
• Fuzing: Mechanical time fuze (nose-mounted); set to desired burst altitude

Performance

• Illumination Output: ~482,000 candlepower
• Burn Time: ~39 seconds
• Effective Illumination Area: ~1 km diameter at nominal burst altitude

Color and Markings

• Body: Grey
• Identification Band: White band
• Markings: "С" (S) prefix in stenciled designation

Dud Behavior / EOD Hazards

• Unfunctioned time fuze: round impacts as ballistic projectile -- fire and thermal hazard from unexpelled illuminant
• Illuminant composition: magnesium-based, extreme fire hazard
• Burns at ~2,000C; cannot be extinguished with water (Class D fire)
• Intact body with live flare inside: treat as fire hazard, not blast hazard
• HD 1.3 -- mass fire hazard

Sources

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Z-843 / Z-843A -- Incendiary

Identification

• Designation(s): Z-843 / Z-843A (Cyrillic: З-843 / З-843А)
• Type: Incendiary mortar bomb
• Country of Origin: Soviet Union

Physical Characteristics

• Caliber: 120mm
• Length: ~570mm
• Weight: ~17.2 kg
• Body Material: Steel
• Fill: 1.3 kg incendiary composition (thermite/KS-type mixture) + small burster charge for dispersion
• Fuzing: PD fuze (GVMZ type)

Function

• Burster charge ruptures body and disperses incendiary composition over target area
• Designed against combustible targets: vehicles, buildings, supply dumps, fuel storage
• Burns at extremely high temperature; difficult to extinguish

EOD Hazard Warnings

• Incendiary fill may be pyrophoric if body is breached
• Burster charge provides blast hazard
• Combined fire + blast hazard
• Treat as maximum hazard

Sources

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120mm Thermobaric Mortar Round

Identification

• Designation(s): Various designations including Bulgarian VMZ Sopot thermobaric round, Montenegrin Poliex thermobaric 120mm
• Type: Thermobaric (fuel-air explosive) mortar bomb
• Country of Origin: Multiple (Russia original concept; produced by Bulgaria, Montenegro, and others)
• Note: Russian military designation for the thermobaric 120mm mortar round is not widely documented in OSINT; several allied/export manufacturers produce compatible rounds

Physical Characteristics

• Caliber: 120mm
• Length: Similar to OF-843 series
• Weight: ~16-17 kg
• Body Material: Thin-walled steel (designed for blast effect, not fragmentation)
• Fill: Thermobaric composition (aluminum powder + fuel-oxidizer mixture)
• Fuzing: PD fuze

Function

• Two-phase detonation: initial dispersal charge creates fuel-air cloud; secondary ignition creates massive overpressure blast wave
• Extremely effective against enclosed spaces (buildings, bunkers, tunnels, caves)
• Blast wave propagates around obstacles and into openings
• Reduced fragmentation compared to HE-FRAG but vastly increased blast overpressure

EOD Hazard Warnings

• Thermobaric fill may leak from damaged body -- creates vapor/fire hazard
• Blast effects from detonation are devastating in confined spaces
• PD fuze sensitivity as per standard mortar fuzes
• Thin-walled body may be more easily damaged, increasing hazard from compromised round

Sources

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160mm Mortar Rounds

F-853 / F-853A -- High-Explosive

Identification

• Designation(s): F-853 (original WW2-era for M1943); F-853A (improved, for M-160 mortar)
• Type: HE mortar bomb
• Category: Heavy indirect fire, fin-stabilized
• Country of Origin: Soviet Union
• Manufacturer: Soviet state arsenals
• In Service With: Russia (reserve), Syria, Egypt, Iraq, India, Vietnam, North Korea, Iran
• Weapons: 160mm M1943 mortar (muzzle-loaded), M-160 mortar (breech-loaded)

Physical Characteristics

• Caliber: 160mm
• Length: ~600-650mm (estimated)
• Weight:
  • Cast iron variant (M1943-era): 41.2 kg with 10 fins
  • Steel variant (M-160-era): 40.0 kg with 6 fins
• Body Material: Cast iron (original) or steel (later production)
• Warhead Type: HE
• Explosive Fill: TNT or Amatol
• Explosive Fill Weight: ~7.78 kg
• Fuzing: GVMZ-7 (primary), adjustable for HE demolition or fragmentation effects
  • Settings: Instantaneous (super-quick) or Delay
  • Arming: Pneumatic/adiabatic (air column compression) setback mechanism
• Safe & Arm Device: Integral to GVMZ-7 fuze

Fin Assembly and Propulsion

• F-853 (M1943): 10 stabilizing fins
• F-853A (M-160): 6 stabilizing fins
• Gas-sealing cartridge in tail tube
• Propellant increments for range adjustment
• M-160 note: Breech-loading; round loaded from rear, trigger-fired

Color and Markings

• Body: Grey or unpainted (wartime)
• Markings: Black stenciled designation, lot, year
• Fuze: Large GVMZ-7 nose fuze is prominent visual feature

Dud Behavior

• Very heavy round (40+ kg) will penetrate deeply into soft ground
• May be completely buried with no surface evidence
• GVMZ-7 fuze: delay setting may not have functioned -- round may be armed at depth
• Pneumatic arming mechanism of GVMZ-7 is generally reliable but can fail

EOD Hazard Warnings

• EXTREME HAZARD: 40 kg round with 7.78 kg explosive fill
• Massive fragmentation envelope if detonated
• GVMZ-7 fuze: impact-sensitive when armed
• Deep burial makes detection and approach hazardous
• Maximum evacuation distance per SOP
• Weight makes handling extremely dangerous and impractical
• HD 1.1 mass detonation hazard

Countries in Service / Combat Use

• WWII (Berlin, Manchuria), Vietnam War, Indo-Pakistani War 1971, Iran-Iraq War, Syrian Civil War, limited reports in Ukraine

Sources

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240mm Mortar Rounds

53-F-864 -- High-Explosive Fragmentation

Identification

• Designation(s): 53-F-864 (commonly F-864)
• Type: HE-FRAG mortar bomb (heavy)
• Category: Heavy indirect fire, fin-stabilized
• Country of Origin: Soviet Union
• Manufacturer: Soviet/Russian state arsenals
• In Service With: Russia, Ukraine (captured/inherited), Iraq, Syria, Czech Republic, Afghanistan (former)
• Weapons: M-240 towed mortar, 2S4 Tyulpan self-propelled mortar

Physical Characteristics

• Caliber: 240mm
• Length: ~1,200-1,500mm (estimated)
• Weight (complete round): 130 kg (290 lbs)
• Body Material: Forged steel (thick-walled for maximum fragmentation)
• Warhead Type: HE-FRAG
• Explosive Fill: TNT or TNT/RDX mixture
• Explosive Fill Weight: ~32 kg (70.5 lbs) -- massive payload
• Fuzing: GVMZ-7 (point-detonating, nose-mounted)
  • Settings: Instantaneous (super-quick) or Delay
  • Arming: Pneumatic/adiabatic air-column setback mechanism
• Safe & Arm Device: Integral to GVMZ-7

Fin Assembly and Propulsion

• Fin-stabilized tail assembly
• Primary propellant cartridge + increment charges
• M-240 (towed): Muzzle-loaded by mechanical hoist or multiple crew
• 2S4 Tyulpan: Breech-loaded by hydraulic loading mechanism
• Range (gravity-dropped): ~800m min to ~9,650m max
• With 3M15 rocket-assist motor: Range extends to ~18-20 km

Body Construction

• Heavy forged steel body
• 32 kg of HE produces devastating blast and fragmentation
• Lethal fragment radius: ~150m
• Blast overpressure lethal at significant distance
• Capable of destroying reinforced field fortifications

Color and Markings

• Body: Dark grey
• Markings: Black stenciled (designation, lot, year, factory)
• GVMZ-7 fuze: Large, prominent nose fuze

Visual ID Features

• Massive size and weight (nearly a meter and a half long, 130 kg)
• Large-diameter body (240mm / ~9.5 inches)
• Prominent GVMZ-7 nose fuze
• Fin-stabilized tail assembly
• Cannot be confused with any other commonly encountered mortar round due to sheer size

Commonly Confused With

• Possible confusion with large aircraft bombs if body is damaged and fins missing
• At distance, could be mistaken for a gas cylinder or industrial pipe

Dud Behavior

• Extreme ground penetration: 130 kg round at terminal velocity will bury deeply
• May penetrate several meters into soft soil
• If GVMZ-7 armed but unfunctioned: 32 kg of HE at depth is MAXIMUM HAZARD
• Delay fuze setting: may not have completed delay -- could function at any time
• Recovery/disposal is a major engineering operation

EOD Hazard Warnings

• EXTREME HAZARD -- 130 kg round with 32 kg HE fill
• This is among the largest conventional mortar rounds in the world
• GVMZ-7 fuze is impact-sensitive when armed
• 32 kg explosive charge: mass detonation hazard with catastrophic fragmentation envelope
• Deep ground penetration makes approach and identification extremely dangerous
• Mechanical handling required -- DO NOT attempt manual movement
• Maximum evacuation distance -- well beyond standard mortar evacuation radii
• Nuclear-capable platform: 240mm mortar system was designed to deliver tactical nuclear rounds (now reportedly withdrawn from service)
• HD 1.1 mass detonation hazard

Countries in Service / Combat Use

• Soviet-Afghan War, Chechen Wars (Grozny 1994-95, 1999-2000), Syrian Civil War, Russo-Ukrainian War (2022-present, confirmed use at Azovstal steel plant, Mariupol)

Sources

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3F5 Smelchak -- Laser-Guided

Identification

• Designation(s): 3F5 (complete system: 1K113 Smelchak / "Daredevil")
• Type: Laser-guided corrected mortar bomb
• Country of Origin: Soviet Union / Russia
• In Service With: Russia
• Weapons: 2S4 Tyulpan only

Physical Characteristics

• Caliber: 240mm
• Weight: 134.2 kg (296 lbs) [some sources: 125 kg]
• Warhead: HE-FRAG, ~32 kg TNT equivalent
• Guidance: Semi-active laser homing (SALH)
  • Laser designator: 1D15
  • Guidance activation: 400-800m from target
  • Laser designation time: Brief (reduces countermeasure window)
• CEP: ~10m (with 1D15 designator)

Performance

• Minimum Range: 3.6 km
• Maximum Range: 9.2 km
• Guidance System Components: 3F5 projectile, 1D15 laser designator/rangefinder, 1A35K/1A35J synchronization system

EOD Hazard Warnings

• Contains guidance electronics -- potential EMI/RF sensitivity
• Large HE-FRAG warhead (32 kg equivalent) -- same extreme blast hazard as F-864
• Laser seeker head may contain battery (chemical hazard if corroded)
• Treat as maximum hazard
• Do not transmit RF in proximity

Sources

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3O8 Nerpa -- Cluster (Cargo)

Identification

• Designation(s): 3O8 Nerpa (Нерпа / "Seal")
• Type: Rocket-assisted cargo (cluster) mortar round
• Country of Origin: Soviet Union / Russia
• Weapons: 2S4 Tyulpan (with 3M15 rocket motor)

Physical Characteristics

• Caliber: 240mm
• Weight (complete round): 230 kg (510 lbs)
• Warhead Weight: 112 kg (247 lbs)
• Submunitions: 14 x O-10 HE-FRAG parachute-retarded submunitions
• Propulsion: 3M15 rocket-assist motor
• Range: 7.1 - 19.3 km

Function

• Rocket motor ignites after launch, extending range to ~19 km
• At target area, warhead ejects 14 O-10 submunitions
• Each O-10 submunition descends on parachute and detonates on/near ground
• Saturates area target with fragmentation

Dud Behavior

• HIGH DUD RATE EXPECTED: Cluster submunitions historically have significant failure rates
• O-10 submunitions may be found scattered across wide area
• Parachute-retarded: may hang in trees, on structures, in debris
• Each unfunctioned submunition is an individual UXO hazard
• Rocket motor sections may be found as separate debris

EOD Hazard Warnings

• CLUSTER MUNITION: Multiple individual UXO across wide area
• Each O-10 submunition must be treated as individual hazard item
• Parachutes and cords create handling hazard
• Rocket motor residue/components may contain unburned propellant
• Wide-area survey required to identify all submunition impact points
• DO NOT HANDLE submunitions -- sensitive fuzing

Countries in Service / Combat Use

• Confirmed use in Syrian Civil War (ARES documented recovery of 3O8 components in Syria)
• Reported use in Ukraine

Sources

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Sayda -- Incendiary

Identification

• Designation(s): Sayda (Сайда)
• Type: Incendiary mortar round
• Country of Origin: Soviet Union / Russia
• Weapons: 2S4 Tyulpan, M-240

Physical Characteristics

• Caliber: 240mm
• Weight: ~130+ kg (estimated, similar to F-864)
• Fill: Incendiary composition designed to set structures and materiel ablaze
• Fuzing: PD fuze (likely GVMZ-7 variant)

Function

• Disperses incendiary material over target area
• Designed against urban targets, supply dumps, fuel storage, fortifications
• Creates intense fires that are difficult to extinguish

EOD Hazard Warnings

• Combined blast and fire hazard
• Incendiary fill may be pyrophoric if body compromised
• Extreme thermal hazard
• Maximum standoff required

Sources

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240mm Nuclear-Capable Round

Identification

• Type: Tactical nuclear mortar round
• Country of Origin: Soviet Union
• Status: Reportedly withdrawn from service; nuclear warheads removed per arms control agreements
• Weapons: 2S4 Tyulpan, M-240

Notes

• The 2S4 Tyulpan / M-240 system was specifically designed with nuclear capability
• This capability drove the development of the 240mm caliber -- large enough for miniaturized tactical nuclear warhead
• Chemical rounds were also developed but reportedly withdrawn from service
• EOD NOTE: Encountering a suspected nuclear round is a CBRN response event -- evacuate and report through nuclear incident channels immediately

Sources

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81mm Mortar Rounds (Western)

M374 / M374A2 / M374A3 -- High-Explosive

Identification

• Designation(s): M374 (original), M374A2, M374A3 (current)
• Type: HE mortar cartridge
• Category: Indirect fire, fin-stabilized
• Country of Origin: United States
• Manufacturer: Multiple US defense contractors; also produced by Hellenic Defence Systems (Greece) and others
• In Service With: United States, NATO allies, Ukraine (supplied 2022-present), and 40+ countries
• Relevance to Ukraine: Supplied alongside M252 81mm mortars as part of Western military aid

Physical Characteristics

• Caliber: 81mm (81.4mm actual)
• Length (complete round): ~584mm (23 inches)
• Weight (complete round): ~4.1 kg (9.05 lbs) for M374A3
• Body Material: Pearlitic malleable cast iron
• Warhead Type: HE
• Explosive Fill: Composition B (60/40 RDX/TNT)
• Explosive Fill Weight: ~0.95 kg (2.10 lbs)
• Fuzing: Nose-mounted PD or multi-option
  • Compatible Fuzes: M524 series, M526 series, M532, M567
  • Arming: Setback-actuated
• Propelling Charge: M90 (M374); M90A1 (M374A2/A3)

Fin Assembly

• Fin-stabilized tail assembly
• Propellant increments in horseshoe charges on fin assembly
• M90/M90A1 propelling charge system

Color and Markings

• Body: Olive drab
• Markings: Yellow stenciled markings (HE designation)
• Fuze: Silver/grey aluminum or olive drab

Commonly Confused With

• Soviet 82mm O-832 family: Very similar size; check caliber (81mm vs. 82mm), markings (English vs. Cyrillic), body color (olive drab vs. grey)
• UK L16 81mm rounds: Similar NATO standard but different manufacturer markings

Dud Behavior

• Standard PD fuze dud behavior: nose-down orientation, partially buried
• Fuze may be armed -- same disturbance sensitivity as Soviet PD fuzes
• Composition B is slightly more sensitive than TNT to shock

EOD Hazard Warnings

• PD fuze sensitivity when armed
• Composition B fill: more energetic than TNT; somewhat shock-sensitive
• Cast iron body: irregular fragmentation
• HD 1.1 mass detonation hazard

Sources

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M375 / M375A2 -- Smoke (White Phosphorus)

Identification

• Designation(s): M375 (original), M375A1, M375A2 (current)
• Type: WP smoke mortar cartridge
• Country of Origin: United States

Physical Characteristics

• Caliber: 81mm
• Weight (complete round): 4.24 kg
• Body Material: Steel
• Fill: 0.72 kg white phosphorus (WP)
• Fuzing: M524 series, M526 series, or M567
• Propelling Charge: M90 (M375); M90A1 (M375A1/A2)

Color and Markings

• Body: Light green
• Markings: Red markings + one narrow yellow band
• Light green body + red markings is PRIMARY identifier for WP smoke

EOD Hazard Warnings

• WP auto-ignites on air exposure
• Toxic P2O5 fumes
• Severe burn hazard
• Same general dud hazards as M374

Sources

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M301A3 -- Illumination (81mm)

Identification

• Designation(s): M301A3
• Type: Illuminating mortar cartridge
• Country of Origin: United States

Physical Characteristics

• Caliber: 81mm
• Weight: ~3.9 kg
• Fill: Parachute-suspended illuminating composition
• Fuzing: Mechanical time fuze (M84 series)

Color and Markings

• Body: White with black markings

Sources

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120mm Mortar Rounds (Western)

M933 / M933A1 -- High-Explosive (PD Fuze)

Identification

• Designation(s): M933 (original), M933A1 (current)
• Type: HE mortar cartridge
• Category: Indirect fire, fin-stabilized
• Country of Origin: United States
• Manufacturer: Day & Zimmermann and others
• In Service With: United States (M120/M121 mortar systems), NATO allies, Ukraine (supplied with M120 mortars)

Physical Characteristics

• Caliber: 120mm
• Length (complete round): 711mm (27.99 inches)
• Weight (complete round): 14.2 kg (31.2 lbs)
• Body Material: Wrought carbon steel (superior fragmentation to cast iron)
• Warhead Type: HE
• Explosive Fill: Composition B (60/40 RDX/TNT)
• Explosive Fill Weight: 2.99 kg (6.59 lbs) -- nearly DOUBLE the OF-843's fill weight
• Fuzing: M783 Point Detonating Fuze (M933A1)
  • Settings: Super-quick or Delay
  • Arming: Setback-actuated

Fin Assembly

• Fin-stabilized tail assembly
• Propellant increment system

Color and Markings

• Body: Olive drab
• Markings: Yellow stenciled (HE designation, lot, date)

Key Differences from Soviet OF-843

• Lighter overall: 14.2 kg vs. 16 kg
• More explosive: 2.99 kg Comp B vs. 1.4-1.6 kg TNT/TD-50
• Better fragmentation: Wrought carbon steel vs. cast iron
• Different color: Olive drab vs. grey
• Different markings: English/Latin vs. Cyrillic

Sources

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M934 / M934A1 -- High-Explosive (Multi-Option Fuze)

Identification

• Designation(s): M934 (original), M934A1 (current)
• Type: HE mortar cartridge with multi-option fuze
• Country of Origin: United States

Physical Characteristics

• Identical to M933/M933A1 in all respects EXCEPT fuze:
• Fuzing: M734A1 Multi-Option Fuze
  • Settings: Proximity (PRX), Near Surface Burst (NSB), Impact (IMP), Delay (DLY)
  • Arming: Electronic setback-actuated
  • Redundancy: If PRX fails, automatically selects NSB; if NSB fails, selects IMP

EOD Hazard Warnings

• ELECTRONIC FUZE with proximity mode -- RF/EMI SENSITIVE
• M734A1 has automatic cascading function: even if primary mode fails, backup modes engage
• Do not use radio transmitters within minimum safe distance
• Treat all M934 duds as having a live, potentially RF-sensitive electronic fuze
• Same Composition B fill hazard as M933
• HD 1.1 mass detonation hazard

Sources

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Appendix A: Fuze Quick Reference

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Appendix B: Soviet Mortar Round Designation System

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Appendix C: Comparative Data Table

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END OF DATABASE