The specter of indirect fire – artillery, mortars, rockets, and missiles – continues to loom large over modern conflict, a constant threat to military personnel and civilians alike. While the tactics and technologies evolve, the fundamental danger remains: attacks originating from concealed locations, making pinpointing the source and achieving immediate retaliation exceptionally difficult. This enduring challenge, recently revisited in discussions among veterans and active-duty service members, underscores the persistent relevance of understanding and mitigating the risks posed by indirect fire in the ongoing Global War on Terror and beyond, particularly in the context of the current conflict in the Middle East.
The term “indirect fire” itself describes weapon systems that deliver ordnance without a direct line of sight between the weapon and the target. This contrasts with direct fire weapons like rifles or tank cannons. The inherent difficulty in locating the origin of these attacks has made them a staple of asymmetric warfare, employed by both state and non-state actors. The psychological impact of living under the constant threat of bombardment, often without knowing when or where the next strike will land, is significant, contributing to stress, anxiety, and long-term mental health challenges for those in affected areas. The Defense Visual Information Distribution Service (DVIDS), a vital resource for disseminating information about military operations, highlights the ongoing training and preparedness efforts aimed at countering these threats, as evidenced by imagery of joint mortar training exercises involving the 7th Infantry Division and the 5th Security Forces Assistance Brigade. See image of joint mortar training here.
A Historical Perspective on Indirect Fire
The use of indirect fire dates back to the early 20th century with the development of trench warfare in World War I. Artillery became a dominant force on the battlefield, capable of delivering devastating firepower from a distance. Throughout the 20th and 21st centuries, the sophistication of indirect fire systems has increased dramatically. From basic mortars to advanced rocket systems like the HIMARS (High Mobility Artillery Rocket System), the range, accuracy, and destructive power of these weapons continue to grow. The Global War on Terror, beginning in the aftermath of the September 11th attacks, saw a resurgence in the use of improvised explosive devices (IEDs) – a form of indirect fire – as a primary tactic employed by insurgents in Iraq, and Afghanistan. These IEDs, often triggered remotely, posed a significant threat to coalition forces and civilian populations.
The Defense Visual Information Distribution Service (DVIDS) plays a crucial role in documenting these conflicts and providing a platform for sharing information about the challenges faced by service members. Established as the Defense Video & Imagery Distribution System, DVIDS is now an operation supported by the Defense Media Activity (DMA) and serves as a connection between the American military and the world media. More information about DVIDS can be found on Wikipedia. It broadcasts a wide range of content, including videos, photographs, podcasts, and webcasts, offering a glimpse into the realities of modern warfare.
The Evolving Threat Landscape in the Middle East
The ongoing conflict in the Middle East has brought the threat of indirect fire into sharp focus once again. Various actors, including Hamas, Hezbollah, and Iranian-backed militias, have employed rockets, mortars, and drones to target Israel and U.S. Forces in the region. The increasing use of precision-guided munitions and unmanned aerial systems (UAS) adds a novel layer of complexity to the threat. These systems are more accurate and can be launched from greater distances, making them harder to intercept and counter. The proliferation of these technologies raises concerns about their potential use by other non-state actors around the globe.
The challenges of defending against indirect fire are multifaceted. Traditional counter-battery radar systems, designed to detect the launch point of incoming fire, can be jammed or spoofed. Iron Dome, Israel’s renowned missile defense system, has proven effective in intercepting many rockets and mortars, but it is not foolproof and can be overwhelmed by saturation attacks. The use of tunnels and concealed launch sites makes it difficult to locate and neutralize the sources of fire. The need for advanced detection technologies, improved intelligence gathering, and enhanced coordination between defense systems is paramount.
Mitigation Strategies and Troop Preparedness
Addressing the threat of indirect fire requires a comprehensive approach that encompasses technological advancements, tactical adaptations, and psychological resilience. Military training programs emphasize the importance of situational awareness, rapid response procedures, and the use of protective measures, such as bunkers and hardened facilities. The development of advanced sensors and data analytics capabilities is crucial for detecting and tracking incoming fire, as well as identifying potential launch sites. Investing in electronic warfare capabilities can help to disrupt enemy communications and jam their targeting systems.
Beyond technological solutions, building the psychological resilience of troops is essential. Exposure to prolonged periods of indirect fire can lead to significant stress and trauma. Providing access to mental health support services, promoting peer-to-peer support networks, and fostering a culture of open communication can help service members cope with the psychological challenges of combat. As highlighted by the recent discussions among veterans, sharing personal experiences and providing advice to those currently deployed can be invaluable in building resilience and fostering a sense of camaraderie.
DVIDS and the Dissemination of Information
The Defense Visual Information Distribution Service (DVIDS) plays a critical role in disseminating information about these challenges and the efforts being made to address them. By providing access to news, images, audio, and video from military operations around the world, DVIDS helps to inform the public and build support for the armed forces. The organization also operates DefenseTV, a military television app, and the Military 24/7 mobile app, delivering news and information directly to service members and their families. Scott Betts currently leads the Department of Defense DVIDS program via Defense Media Activity, located at Fort Meade, Maryland.
However, it’s essential to note a recent shift in DVIDS’s content strategy. In 2025, the organization removed all “news and feature articles, photos, and videos that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI).” This decision, as reported by Wikipedia, reflects a broader policy change within the Department of Defense regarding the prioritization of DEI initiatives. This change in focus may impact the type of content available on DVIDS in the future.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Indirect Fire Warfare
The threat of indirect fire is likely to remain a significant challenge for the foreseeable future. As technology continues to advance, we can expect to see the development of even more sophisticated and lethal indirect fire systems. The increasing use of artificial intelligence (AI) and autonomous weapons systems could further complicate the threat landscape. Maintaining a technological edge, investing in robust defense systems, and prioritizing the psychological well-being of service members will be crucial for mitigating the risks posed by indirect fire in the years to come. The lessons learned from past conflicts, combined with ongoing research and development, will be essential for ensuring the safety and security of those who serve.
The ongoing evolution of this threat demands continuous adaptation and innovation. The ability to anticipate and counter new tactics and technologies will be paramount in protecting both military personnel and civilian populations from the devastating effects of indirect fire. As the global security environment continues to shift, a proactive and comprehensive approach to addressing this enduring challenge will be essential for maintaining peace and stability.
The Department of Defense is expected to release an updated assessment of global threats, including those related to indirect fire, in the fall of 2026. Stay tuned to World Today Journal for continued coverage of this important issue. We encourage readers to share their thoughts and perspectives in the comments section below.