Destroying Hamas Rocket Launcher, Israel Uses Iron Sting 'Smart Mortar' for the First Time

For the first time, the Israeli military has released video footage of the use of Iron Sting in attacks against Hamas in Gaza. Developed and produced by Elbit Systems, Iron Sting is ammunition in the form of a 120 mm caliber smart mortar guided by laser and GPS (Global Positioning System). 

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Claimed to have high precision, Iron Sting is said to be ideal for urban warfare operations by minimizing the risk of additional damage.

Quoted from Foxnews.com (22/10/2023), it was said that Iron Sting was used by the Israeli military to destroy the rocket launcher used by Hamas in last Sunday's battle. 

Iron Sting, described as an “innovative and accurate mortar bomb.” Israeli forces use the Iron Sting by combining this weaponry together with combat elements from the Air Force.

The Iron Sting is designed for use with the “Keshet” and “Hanit” mortar ammunition used by Israeli Army Infantry troops. Installed on a mechatronic mortar platform on the M113 mine, testing of the Iron Sting system was completed in March 2021. 

יחידת מגלן בשיתוף חיל-האוויר, סיכלה עשרות מחבלים באמצעות מגוון אמצעי לחימה, ביניהם פצצת מרגמה (פצמ״ר) חדשנית ומדויקת, הנקראת "עוקץ פלדה".

צפו בתיעוד מתקיפת משגר רקטות באמצעות "עוקץ פלדה" pic.twitter.com/ucphdgboJN

— Israeli Air Force (@IAFsite) October 22, 2023

The Iron Sting system consists of a 120 mm mortar which is capable of penetrating double reinforced concrete and has a launch range of up to 12 km.

"Iron Sting is said to be able to meet Israel's military needs, especially in dealing with hidden enemies in civilian and urban environments, while meeting the legal and moral standards set by the State of Israel," said Defense Minister Benny Gantz in his statement.

Development of the Iron Sting began in the early 2010s and continued after Elbit Systems acquired the military industry. 

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In March 2021, Iron Sting completed a series of tests that were declared successful, marking the end of its development phase and demonstrating readiness for delivery to Israeli military units. Iron Stings were supplied to the Israeli infantry during 2021–2022, and are operated by reconnaissance platoons.