The Minenwerfen of the Kaiserheer, 1914-1918
The German Army’s Use of Mortars in the First World War
Sep 12, 2008
During the First World War, from 1914-1918, the Kaiserheer – or Imperial Army – of Germany employed three basic types of mortars. These mortars were known as Minenwerfen. The purpose of the mortars was to fire shells in a high trajectory but at a low speed. The combination of these two characteristics gave Triple Entente troops little time to respond and take cover, thus allowing the Germans a degree of control in certain sections of the front lines.
Light, Medium, and Heavy MortarsStormtroopers; medium mortars; and heavy mortars initially designed to defend fortified positions. All three of these varieties, however, were fearsome weapons. The high trajectory of the mortar, combined with the knowledge of the round’s fierce impact following its trademark cry through the air, ensured that enemy troops kept a watchful eye skyward for them.
The Light MortarThe Medium and Heavy Mortars
In addition to the light mortars, the Kaiserheer also employed heavy and medium mortars. Medium mortars lacked the range of the light mortar, being able to launch a mortar only up to 900 meters. However, the medium mortar had a diameter of 17cm and threw a projectile which weighed 49.5kg. The heavy mortar continued this shrinking theme. With an effective range of only 550 meters, the heavy mortar was 21cm in diameter and fired a massive 100kg mortar.
While the rounds could be seen, and the danger from the shrapnel avoided, the impact of the mortar was enough to collapse trenches and dugouts. With the knowledge of Minenwerfer activity in an area Entente troops became fully aware that burial alive and suffocation became real threats.
The Use of the Sources
Dooly, William G., Jr. Great Weapons of World War I. New York: Bonanza Books, 1960.
Drury, Ian. German Stormtrooper, 1914-1918. Great Britain: Osprey, 1996.
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