120mm M983 Fired Infrared Illumination Mortar Round

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120mm M983 Fired Infrared Illumination Mortar Round

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INERT 120mm M983 Illumination Mortar Round.

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This inert 120mm M983 Infrared Illumination Mortar Round is a fired round that once served as a critical tool for nighttime battlefield visibility. The M983 was developed to provide infrared (IR) illumination on the battlefield, allowing night-vision-equipped forces to see in total darkness without revealing their position to the naked eye. Unlike standard white-light illumination rounds, the M983 emits IR light only visible through night vision devices, offering a tactical advantage during nighttime reconnaissance, surveillance, and combat operations.

Originally fielded by the U.S. military and NATO forces, the M983 120mm round was designed for use with standard 120mm mortar systems, including the M120 and M121 systems widely deployed by U.S. Army mechanized infantry and mounted mortar platoons. Once fired, the round deployed a parachute-suspended IR flare, which descended slowly to provide extended-area coverage for critical night operations. Its use was especially prominent in low-light missions in Iraq and Afghanistan, supporting force protection and offensive engagements.

Product Details:

  • Type: Inert Fired Mortar Round
  • Caliber: 120mm
  • Designation: M983 Infrared Illumination
  • Material: Fired steel body with components
  • Condition: Fired, inert, safe for display
  • Use: Collectible, educational display, museum reference, military history artifact

Historical Significance:

The M983 IR Illumination round played a critical role in modern asymmetric warfare, enabling U.S. and allied forces to dominate the night battlefield. By illuminating wide areas in the infrared spectrum, these rounds gave operators a stealth advantage and were instrumental in night raids, patrols, and counterinsurgency missions during the Global War on Terror.

Ideal For:

  • Military artifact collectors
  • Museums and educational exhibits
  • Tactical display builds
  • Visual training aids

Note: This round is fully inert and free of any explosive or hazardous components. It is safe for handling, transport, and static display. This is a fired example; the round you receive may have better/worse paint, and some fuzes may also be stuck.

Approx length 26", Approx width 4.5", Approx weight 24.5lbs.

Pictures are stock images of our inventory. Unless otherwise noted, you will not be receiving the exact item shown in the pictures. The pictures are representative of the item's general condition. The item you receive might be slightly better, or worse, condition than was shown in the pictures.

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