What hazard must be taken into account when firing mortars near friendly troops?

The consideration of danger close limits is crucial when firing mortars near friendly troops because it addresses the potential risk of friendly casualties due to the effects of mortar fire. Danger close refers to a guideline that establishes how close friendly forces can be to the targeted area without being at an unacceptable risk of injury or death from friendly artillery or mortar fire.

Mortars, due to their indirect fire nature, can create severe consequences, including shrapnel and blast effects, affecting troops in proximity. The danger close limits specifically define the distance at which the risk becomes unacceptably high, thus ensuring that commanders make informed decisions about engaging targets while keeping troops safe.

This concept is integral to mission planning and execution, as it affects targeting priorities, the type of munitions used, and the overall tactical approach to employing mortar fire in combat situations. Understanding the danger close parameters allows for effective coordination and communication between units on the battlefield.