Image: Danish Defence Material and Procurement Agency
The Danish Army has introduced modern 120mm ammunition for its CARDOM heavy mortar systems, marking a significant upgrade in the force’s indirect fire capabilities.
Units equipped with CARDOM10 heavy mortars can now employ three NATO-approved ammunition types: high-explosive, illumination, and smoke rounds. The acquisition replaces reliance on the M/50 high-explosive grenade, which dates to the Cold War era, according to Denmark’s Defence Material and Procurement Agency (FMI).
Enhanced Operational Flexibility
The new ammunition entered service in December 2025, when Army mortar crews demonstrated the improved weapon effects during live-fire exercises. Danish Artillery Regiment units will resume operations with the rounds in week 11 of 2026.
“The new ammunition gives the Army’s units increased power on the battlefield,” said Major Jesper Lindholm, acting commander of the 1st Infantry Division’s Artillery Department. “It is an important step in the modernization of the Army’s firepower.”
The modern shells feature aerodynamic design improvements that extend engagement range and simplify handling for crews. Operational units completed testing before the ammunition received approval for widespread use.
Mounted Systems Provide Mobile Fire Support
Denmark’s CARDOM 120mm mortars are integrated onto Piranha 5 armoured platforms, providing mobile fire support for the Army’s 1st Brigade. The computerized mortar system enables rapid target engagement across extended ranges.
Colonel Thomas Øgendahl Knudsen, head of FMI’s land military division, noted the technological advances embedded in the new rounds. “Our previous ammunition, which was produced during the Cold War, was of high quality,” he said. “But technological development has also benefited mortar ammunition. The small design changes in the shells make a difference.”
Domestic Production Planned
Denmark is establishing an ammunition production facility in Elling, expected to become operational in 2027. The factory will manufacture modern 120mm high-explosive rounds, creating domestic supply capacity for heavy mortar ammunition.
The domestic production capability will reduce Denmark’s dependence on foreign suppliers and ensure sustained availability of ammunition stocks. FMI officials indicated the facility will support the Armed Forces’ operational requirements for modern mortar rounds.
Strategic Implications
The ammunition upgrade aligns with broader European efforts to modernize artillery and indirect fire capabilities following renewed focus on conventional warfare. Modern mortar systems provide mobile units with organic fire support, enabling rapid response to tactical situations without relying on divisional artillery assets.
The integration of illumination and smoke rounds expands tactical options for Danish commanders. Illumination shells support night operations, while smoke rounds enable screening manoeuvres and concealment of friendly movements.
Denmark’s investment in modern mortar ammunition reflects growing recognition across NATO allies that Cold War-era stockpiles require replacement with systems designed for contemporary operational environments.
Source: Danish Defence Material and Procurement Agency announcement
