Elbit to supply mortar weapon systems for U.S. Army

HAIFA, Israel, Nov. 23 (UPI) -- Elbit Systems has received a $103 million contract to produce mortar weapon systems for the U.S. Army.

Representatives from both parties inked the deal in Watervliet Arsenal, N.Y., and agreed to employ WVA as a subcontractor for the project. Officials estimate work will be complete after five years.

"We are extremely pleased to continue our partnership with the United States Army by supplying our warfighters with the mortar weapon systems that enhance their mission effectiveness and provide the necessary precision and flexibility to address current and future threats," Elbit CEO Raanan Horowitz said in a press release.

Infantry units use mortar weapons for indirect fire to allow for rapid maneuvers on the battlefield. The U.S. Army uses three variants of mortars that support a full family of ammunition including high-explosive, infrared and visible light illumination, smoke, and training. A next-generation Android-based variant is currently under development.