DEFMIL119
Operate a mortar


Application

This unit describes the skills required to operate a mortar, including the 81mm mortar, in the Defence Force.

This unit applies to those working as combat arms personnel required to operate mortar equipment.

The skills and knowledge described in this unit must be applied within the legislative, regulatory and policy environment in which they are carried out. Organisational policies and procedures must be consulted and adhered to.

Those undertaking this unit would work under supervision, usually as part of a team and will operate under direct orders. They would use discretion and judgement, and take responsibility for the quality of their outputs while performing specific tasks in a range of contexts.

No licensing, legislative, regulatory or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.


Elements and Performance Criteria

ELEMENTS

PERFORMANCE CRITERIA

Elements describe the essential outcomes

Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. Where bold italicised text is used, further information is detailed in the range of conditions section.

1. Position the weapon

1.1 Prepare weapon position for firing.

1.2 Prepare ancillary equipment for use and operate as required or directed.

1.3 Prepare weapon for firing.

2. Fire the weapon

2.1 Prepare sighting equipment for use and operate as required or directed.

2.2 Calculate firing data both manually and electronically, and communicate to supervisor.

2.3 Aim and adjust mortar as directed.

2.4 Handle and prepare ammunition.

2.5 Inspect ammunition visually and report defects to supervisor.

2.6 Conduct weapon drills.

2.7 Fire mortar in an operational environment and in accordance with orders.

3. Maintain and stow the mortar

3.1 Clean and service weapon and associated equipment as required.

3.2 Identify and rectify defects within limits of authority or report to supervisor.

3.3 Complete documentation.

3.4 Secure mortar.

Evidence of Performance

Evidence required to demonstrate competence must satisfy all of the requirements of the elements and performance criteria. If not otherwise specified the candidate must demonstrate evidence of performance of the following on at least one occasion.

achieving the required effects of fire

applying battle craft

applying fieldcraft

applying recognised safety precautions

interpreting fire control orders

carrying out weapon drills including:

action

adjustment of scales

cease fire

firing

misfire

parallel

position aiming posts

firing the weapon using, as a minimum, high explosive ammunition

completing a variety of firing data calculations at least two of:

circular/rectangular sheath

coverage

datum

grids

intersection

linear

link shooting

location

polar

proving the belt

shift


Evidence of Knowledge

Evidence required to demonstrate competence must satisfy all of the requirements of the elements and performance criteria. If not otherwise specified the depth of knowledge demonstrated must be appropriate to the job context of the candidate.

battle craft

characteristics, technical capabilities, effects, employment and limitations of mortars and ammunition

fieldcraft

target indication procedure

weapon drills


Assessment Conditions

Competency should be assessed in an actual workplace or in a simulated environment, with access to equipment and infrastructure appropriate to the outcome. Competency should be demonstrated over time to ensure the candidate is assessed across a variety of situations.

Assessors must satisfy the NVR/AQTF mandatory competency requirements for assessors.


Foundation Skills

The foundation skills demands of this unit have been mapped for alignment with the Australian Core Skills Framework (ACSF). The following tables outline the performance levels indicated for successful attainment of the unit.

Further information on ACSF and the foundation skills underpinning this unit can be found in the Foundation Skills Guide on the GSA website.


Competency Field

Military Skills