| Place | Asia: Vietnam, Bien Hoa Province, Bien Hoa |
|---|---|
| Accession Number | RELAWM40062.001 |
| Collection type | Technology |
| Object type | Artillery |
| Physical description | Paint, Steel |
| Place made | China |
| Date made | 1967 |
| Conflict |
Vietnam, 1962-1975 |
Type 31 60 mm Mortar : Viet Cong
Description
Type 31 60 mm Mortar. The mortar consists of a barrel, bipod and baseplate. The barrel is made from ordnance steel and has a smoothbore profile. The breech end has a ball and socket arrangement that fits into the baseplate. The tripod is adjustable for traverse and elevation and can be folded for transportation purposes. The baseplate is square in profile and is made from pressed metal. There are anchor spikes at the bottom of the baseplate.. The mortar is painted olive drab. Markings - 67 10308.
History / Summary
This weapon was captured by Support Company (Anti Tank Platoon) 2 Battalion Royal Australian Regiment (2RAR), on Operation Coburg in Bien Hoa Province in 1968. By following a blood trail from small contacts the previous day, a patrol from Support Company contacted seven Viet Cong. The action resulted in six VC killed and one wounded. The weapon is essentially a copy of the American M2 60 mm mortar and many of the parts are interchangeable.