Lightweight Handheld Mortar Ballistic Computer (LHMBC)

The M32 Lightweight Handheld Mortar Ballistic Computer (LHMBC) is a compact, portable, and intuitive fire control solution for U.S. 60mm, 81mm, and 120mm dismounted mortar systems. It can also be used as a backup device for the Mortar Fire Control System (MFCS) in Mortar Carrier and Stryker operations.

The LHMBC replaces the M23 Mortar Ballistic Computer, which is currently being phased out of Army inventory. The LHMBC provides a weight reduction of 50% and a volume reduction of 64% over its predecessor while providing improved capability, speed, and accuracy. The LHMBC provides a robust, easy to use fire control system, on a platform which is upgradable and adaptable to ever evolving mission requirements.

The LHMBC is comprised of a Ruggedized Personal Digital Assistant (R-PDA) computer with an integrated tactical modem (TacLink) and Global Positioning System (GPS) capability tied together by fire control software developed in-house by ARDEC at Picatinny Arsenal, NJ. The TacLink modem enables the LHMBC to communicate and coordinate fires over a digital network with forward observers or fire support elements using SINKGARS radios. For those that do not require digital communication or GPS cability, a degraded configuration, referred to as the LHMBC Basic, is also available.

The LHMBC can calculate solutions for all existing U.S. mortar ammunition across all weapon calibers, and can be readily upgraded as new rounds become available. The LHMBC incorporates all functions essential to directing safe and accurate mortar fire including MET compensation, registration, smoke card, Fire Support Coordination Measures, Safety Fan, and plotting. Mission capabilities include, but are not limited to: Grid, Shift, Polar, Search, Traverse, Final Protective Fires, Quick Smoke, Immediate Smoke, Coordinated Illumination, Immediate Suppression, Direct-Lay, and Hip-Shoot.

System Requirements: MFCS ORD 1995, UFD 2003, USMC MBC ORD 2002

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