Why might mortars be employed in urban warfare?

Mortars are particularly advantageous in urban warfare due to their tactical flexibility and ability to effectively breach fortified positions. In dense urban environments, traditional line-of-sight artillery may be hindered by buildings and other obstacles, but mortars can be employed from various locations and can fire projectiles at high angles, allowing them to hit targets that are otherwise difficult to engage directly.

Additionally, mortars can deliver a range of munitions, including high-explosive rounds for destroying enemy fortifications or structures and smoke or illumination rounds for obscuring movement or enhancing visibility. This versatility allows infantry units to adapt to changing battlefield conditions and support maneuver operations effectively.

Urban warfare often involves close quarters, requiring precise and effective fire support that mortars can provide, making them a valuable asset in these scenarios.