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