The M853A1 & M816 Cartridges are designed for use with the M252 81mm Mortar System for illuminating
target areas to facilitate adjustment of fire. The projectile is loaded with an illuminant candle assembly and
parachute assembly. The M853A1 and M816 are identical with the exception of the illuminant candle
composition. The M853A1 contains a standard illuminant mix which provides approximately 525,000
candlepower of light whereas the M816 contains an infrared illuminant mix for use with standard night vision
devices. It is designed to provide infrared illumination which can not be detected
by the human eye in the target area.
The M853A1/816 is equipped with the M772 Mechanical Time Fuze which functions at a
user-specified time after launch. When the fuze functions it initiates the candle assembly and separates the front
and rear projectile segments. As the parachute deploys, the candle burns for 50-60 seconds, providing the
required illumination over the target area.
The M853A1/816 consists of the following major components:
- Projectile Body Assembly
- M219 Propelling Charge
- M752A1 Ignition Cartridge
- M29 Fin Assembly
- M772 Mechanical Time Super Quick Fuze
- Illuminant Candle Assembly
- Parachute Assembly
Propelling
Charge Zone | Muzzle
Velocity | Minimum
Range | Maximum
Range
| 1 | 152 m/s | 300 m | 1450 m |
| 2 | 211 m/s | 550 m | 2900 m |
| 3 | 260 m/s | 700 m | 4100 m |
| 4 | 304 m/s | 850 m | 5000 m |
|
Maximum Rate of Fire.........30 rounds/min (2 minutes)
Sustained Rate of Fire..........15 rounds/min
Height of Burst..........475 m
Burn Time..........50 sec
Cartridge Weight..........4.04 kg (8.9 lb)
M853A1 Type Classified Standard..........December 1986
M816 Type Classified Standard..........July 1994
Contractor: Thiokol
Procurement Type: Production (Marine Corp)
Previous Contracts: 2
Contract Type: Firm Fixed Price
Production Qty: 8000
Scope: Initial Production Contract
