Finnish Defence Forces to enhance battlefield mobility with new 120mm mortar system

By Defence Industry Europe

The Finnish Defence Forces (FDF) have taken a significant step in advancing battlefield capabilities with the acquisition of a new 120mm modular mortar system from Finnish defence company Patria. The pre-series of the mortar system, officially named the Patria TREMOS, is scheduled for delivery to the Finnish Army in 2025, following a swift agreement facilitated by the Finnish Defence Forces’ Logistics Command. On the same day as the acquisition announcement, Patria introduced the new Patria TREMOS mortar system to an international audience at the Future Mortar Systems conference in London on October 29, 2024.

 

This innovative system, referred to by the Finnish Army as the 120 KRH M3, integrates traditional heavy mortars into a modular carriage mounted on military trucks, creating a versatile and mobile artillery solution. Designed to accommodate both existing and new heavy mortar weapons, the TREMOS system leverages the Finnish Army’s current fire management system while maintaining compatibility with various vehicle platforms through its integration module, making it adaptable to different mortar types and battlefield needs.

Patria’s extensive experience with complex weapon systems, such as the renowned Patria AMOS and Patria NEMO mortar systems, was integral to the development of TREMOS. “Patria has enhanced the mobility of heavy mortars through excellent collaboration with the Finnish Army and the Finnish Defence Forces Logistics Command,” stated Jussi Järvinen, Patria’s Executive Vice President of the Finland Division. “The system has already undergone testing, and we are pleased to move forward with the pre-series procurement.”

 

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The modular TREMOS system provides operational flexibility by allowing the mortars to be fired directly from the vehicle, eliminating the need for separate deployment and thus enhancing battlefield mobility. In case of vehicle issues, the module can be quickly transferred to another vehicle, ensuring continued operational readiness. This design also enables firing from various terrain types without special preparation, making it a reliable and efficient support weapon for Finnish forces in diverse environments.

With a project value of €4.7 million (excluding VAT), this acquisition underscores the FDF’s commitment to cost-effective, sustainable solutions. The TREMOS system’s international debut at the London conference marked an important milestone, highlighting Finland’s advanced approach to mobile artillery.

 

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Colonel Ari Lehmuslehti, Inspector of Infantry at Army Command, emphasised the system’s role in enhancing the Army’s tactical agility. “The M3 system will boost our forces’ mobility, protection, and effectiveness. This project exemplifies swift, collaborative development, from initial concept to prototype and pre-series testing. We aim to commence conscript training with the new system by 2026 and will evaluate further acquisitions based on field use and feedback.”

By enabling rapid relocation after firing, the TREMOS system addresses the critical need for mobility in countering air-to-ground threats and detection by modern weapon-locating radars. With its vehicle-mounted capabilities, it allows for quick, efficient fire missions closer to targets, reducing exposure time to enemy counterfire and enhancing the effectiveness of Finnish forces on the modern battlefield.

 

Sources:

Patria press release

Finnish Defence Forces press release

 

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