Moons Out Goons Out Infrared 120mm M983 Illumination Mortar Round #military #nightvision #army

Published on November 5, 2025
Duration: 0:43

This video details the restoration of a 120mm M983 IR-ILLUM mortar round, showcasing spray-painting and sandblasting techniques. It contrasts the restored round with a rusted original, highlighting its white body, orange band, and clear markings. The footage then transitions to night vision showing a mortar crew in action and the subsequent deployment of infrared illumination flares, demonstrating the round's tactical purpose for night operations.

Quick Summary

The M983 120mm mortar round is an Infrared Illumination munition used for tactical night operations. Restoration involves sandblasting the fuse, painting the tail fins silver, and marking the white body with an orange band. Night vision footage shows its deployment via flares.

Chapters

  1. 00:00M983 IR Mortar Round Restoration
  2. 00:17Visual Comparison: Rusted vs Restored
  3. 00:31Night Vision: Mortar Firing & Flares

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of the M983 120mm mortar round?

The M983 120mm mortar round is designed for infrared illumination. Its primary purpose is to provide light visible through night vision devices during tactical night operations, aiding mortar crews and other units.

How is the M983 mortar round restored?

Restoration involves cleaning the components, such as sandblasting the fuse to remove corrosion. The tail fin assembly is then spray-painted, typically silver, and the main body is painted white with an orange band for identification.

What visual characteristics define the M983 IR-ILLUM mortar round?

The restored M983 round features a white body, a distinct orange band, and clear markings indicating its designation ('120M IR-ILLUM', 'CRTG M983'). The fuse and tail fins are often finished in metallic colors like silver.

What does night vision footage show regarding the M983 mortar round?

Night vision footage demonstrates the operational use of the M983 round. It captures a mortar crew firing the round and shows the resulting infrared illumination flares descending under parachutes, lighting up the area.

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