Mortar

Definition

A short-range indirect fire weapon that lobs projectiles in a high arc, useful for hitting targets you can't see around corners. A portable artillery piece that fires at high angles.

Example Usage

Mortar fire kept the enemy pinned in their defensive positions while the assault team maneuvered.

Origin

Military weapons terminology; medieval origin

Fun Fact

Mortars are beloved by troops because they're relatively simple, reliable, and can hit things you otherwise couldn't.

Source: Military Weapons and Artillery Systems

Related Terms

Beginner

Contingency Planning

Preparing for every possible catastrophe so nothing surprises you—military pessimism elevated to strategic doctrine.

🎖️ Military / Defense

Advanced

extirpated

When something is so thoroughly destroyed or removed that it's basically been deleted from existence in that area. More intense than just 'eliminated,' this term suggests roots and all—whether we're talking about literal stumps, enemy positions, or unfortunately, entire populations. It's the scorched-earth version of 'getting rid of something.'

🎖️ Military / Defense

Intermediate

TDY

Temporary Duty — a short-term assignment away from your permanent duty station. It is the military's version of a business trip, except your per diem barely covers a gas station sandwich and nobody asks if you enjoyed the Marriott. The 'temporary' part is often a generous interpretation.

🎖️ Military / Defense

Beginner

Breakthrough

A successful penetration of enemy defensive lines, creating an opportunity for exploitation. It's the moment when the defensive strategy transitions from 'holding the line' to 'holy crap, we need to retreat.'

🎖️ Military / Defense

Intermediate

BDA

Battle Damage Assessment—the evaluation of damage caused to enemy targets during strikes. It's the post-attack scorekeeping system, often optimistic about what was actually destroyed.

🎖️ Military / Defense

Beginner

exercises

Military training operations where troops practice warfare without the actual dying part. These simulations range from small-unit drills to massive multinational operations involving thousands of personnel. It's like a very expensive, very serious rehearsal where everyone hopes opening night never comes.

🎖️ Military / Defense

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