K5 (M65) Israeli 120mm Mortar
Soltam K5 (M65)
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Basic Information
Name
K5 (M65) Israeli 120mm Mortar
Designation
Soltam K5 (M65)
Alternate Designation
Soltam K5 (M65); Soltam M-65
Equipment Type
—
Manufacturer
Soltam Systems
Date of Introduction
1962
Description
The M-65 is a 120 mm mortar that was developed by Tampella in 1953 via introduction of new baseplate for 120 Krh/40 invented by Hans Otto Donner. In the 1960s Soltam Systems of Israel bought a license. The mortar system comes in two versions, a standard mortar, and a long-range version. This heavy mortar is light enough to be transported by helicopter sling load, drop by parachute, or carried in an APC such as the M113 Armored Personnel Carrier. It can also be towed as a normal artillery piece or even manhandled if necessary. The wheels on the carriage are the same as fitted to the M151 Jeep and have handling rings to aid in manhandling it. All components are made of chrome-plated or stainless steel to resist wear and corrosion.
Ground Specifications
Crew
6
Mobility Type
Towed
Main Weapon
120 mm Mortar
Range
6.5 km
Variants
M3 Mk. D
A M3 Half-track based 120 mm mortar carrier (used exclusively by Israel Defense Forces until replaced by the M1064 mortar carrier),
System
Alternate Designation
Soltam K5 (M65); Soltam M-65
Manufacturer
Soltam Systems
In Service
1953-Present
Crew
6 ea
Dimensions
Length
INA
Barrel Length
INA
Weight
231 kg (firing position), 351 kg (travelling)
Mortar System
System
Name
M-65
Type
120 mm Mortar
Caliber
120 mm
Carriage
M151 Jeep style carriage wheels
Elevation
+30°/+80°
Traverse
-20°/+20°
Rate of Fire
1st minute: 16 rounds burst, 4 rounds per minute sustained thereafter.
Maximum Firing Range
6,500 m
Ammunition
Name
INA
Type
Mortar Projectile
Caliber
120 mm
Shell
Standard 120 mm NATO mortar round
Image Sources
Details
Country of Origin
Israel
Category
Non-Self Propelled Mortar Systems
Land > Infantry Weapons > Non-Self Propelled Mortar Systems
Filter Label
K
Classification
Domain
Ground
Equipment Status
Active
Dimensions
Length
—
Width
—
Height
—
Weight
231 kg
Operators (1)
Israel
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