Light howitzers, 105mm and 120mm mortars are essentials in mountain operations, thanks to their ability to employ a 1^st and 2^nd firing arc (low and high angle of fire). They are very effective because their trajectory enables them to engage targets on reverse slopes, to take over high mountains and to deliver fire into dead spaces and over intermediate crests. Their ability to use a high angle and rate of fire is suited to the support of dispersed forces. In addition, light artillery can be used as a source of direct fire for creating rock fragments or triggering avalanches for tactical purposes (i.e. counter-mobility) to block enemy approach or escape routes. Both of these assets can be easily towed or transported by air, enhancing unit mobility. They can be moved to their fire positions via air or ground, and by different means of transport such as helicopters, pack animals, cable cars or even by carriage. Medium artillery plays a strategic role, either guarding valley entrances or delivering DEEP fire to support deep manoeuvre tactics.

Mountain artillery units also employ ALL-TERRAIN VEHICLES (such as the BV206 used by Italy) to maximize mobility in challenging terrain where conventional vehicles struggle. These vehicles can tow guns or howitzers with appropriate sleds, and establish Tactical Command Posts that align with manoeuvre requirements.

The challenges of reduced mobility and limited positioning areas in mountainous terrain can impact the availability of artillery fire support. The terrain promotes isolated battles which make the C2 function difficult, so small units often face ‘tactical independence’. To mitigate some of the limitations deriving from mountain terrain, and to better support isolated manoeuvre units, the artillery battery can be broken down into smaller platoons and directly embedded into manoeuvre units. This aligns with the MISSION COMMAND principle, crucial in mountain warfare operations, reflecting upon FS in terms of employment, operational autonomy and combined arms formations.

JFSTs, acting as forward observers of the firing battery (surveillance target acquisition crew), are embedded within manoeuvre units, often positioned near the enemy or within the forward edge battle area. Their primary task is to manage call for fires (both planned and unplanned), requesting, adjusting and controlling the fire delivered by the battery.

Joint capabilities are essential in mountain warfare, because CLOSE AIR SUPPORT, CLOSE COMBAT ATTACK and AIR SUPPORT, in general, can be highly effective as terrain constraints also limit the enemy’s mobility. Furthermore, due to the particular nature of the terrain, Firing Units could face “NO FIRE AREAS” where ground fire support becomes ineffective. 

Qualified Joint Terminal Attack Controllers (JTACs) play a pivotal role in ensuring joint capabilities for JFSTs, working alongside laser operators, drivers/radio operators, and forward observers, as part of the same team. Their mobility and survivability in mountainous terrain are of paramount importance, often requiring the highest levels of advanced training in various specialized skills (combat-assault skills as well as mountaineering).

In addition to their core artillery competencies (as gunners, FDC, calculators, observers, and in mastering procedures), personnel in mountain artillery units must possess solid basic skills in mountain survival, combat, and mobility across icy, snowy, and rocky terrain. Specific branches or branch elements, like FST and FSE, may require individuals with advanced and expert-level knowledge and skills. Furthermore, JFST, given their frontline positions and exposure to combat, are strongly encouraged to undertake training in advanced special skills such as assault tactics, mountaineering, and assault-climbing. Collective training for mountain artillery units includes joint exercises and combined arms training events. Emphasis is placed on training in fire and displacement techniques to mitigate enemy counter-battery fires. Crew drills, including gun and mortar crews, are conducted in restrictive terrain conditions and adverse weather scenarios, including cold environments.

In conclusion, the combination of high mobility-multicalibre delivery platforms and well trained JFST allow Joint Fire Support in mountain units to be vital for achieving success in MWO. Through their adaptability, flexibility, and specialized training, mountain artillery units and their associated personnel play an indispensable role in providing the fire support necessary to overcome the challenges of mountainous terrain and ensure mission success in demanding environments.