How Soldiers Learn To Fire Mortars

Reservists and regulars from the Duke of Lancaster’s Regiment have fired mortars for the first time in their training.

Personnel need weeks of training before they can get close to using the 81mm weapon.

Ahead of testing the device on Warcop Training Area in Cumbria, Lance Corporal Macauley Rogerson told Forces News: "I’m looking forward to it.

"I wouldn’t say I’m scared, wouldn’t say I’m nervous because they give us the right training and everything, and I just want to get it done now, have a go, have a play."

Kingsman Phillip Munnik said: "Bit nervous but excited at the same time, definitely I think a bit more excited than nervous.

"Should be a good experience."

As they fired the 81mm mortar, it was a test for the troops to complete their cadre and qualify with mortar.

Instructors were able to quickly and efficiently iron out any issues, with safety staff, in teams of three, able to step in in case of a complication.

Kingsman Munnik was a fan of the kit: "It was definitely a good experience, something new.

"Obviously being in regular we’ll be able to fire these more often, but it’s definitely a good experience, loved it."

LCpl Rogerson said: “It was different.

"Obviously you don’t actually see where it goes until 30 seconds later but, yeah, it’s good."

Troops from 4 LANCS led the exercise, which meant training was condensed from three weeks to two.

In his review of the troops’ progress, Warrant Officer Class 2 Stephen McConnell told Forces News: "[There are] still a lot of improvements to be made, but overall certainly their attitude and the momentum and the drills being safe, they’re where we think they should be.

"Obviously, like I say, it’s day one so it’s always going to be a bit slow."

Working among regulars and reserves, the personnel have been sectioned into their own households to follow COVID-19 regulations.

The group will now continue its training to qualify in firing the mortar.