What determines the type of fuse selected for a mortar round?

The selection of a fuse for a mortar round is primarily influenced by the type of target and the desired effect on that target. Different types of fuses, such as impact fuses, time fuses, or proximity fuses, are designed to achieve specific effects. For instance, if the goal is to destroy a hard target, an impact fuse may be preferred for immediate detonation. Conversely, if the objective is to create a blast effect over a wider area, a time fuse that detonates the round after it travels a certain distance may be more suitable. The dynamics of the target — whether it is stationary, moving, armored, or personnel — directly dictate the choice of fuse to ensure that munitions achieve their intended outcome effectively.