What is a critical consideration when selecting a firing position for mortars?

A critical consideration when selecting a firing position for mortars is concealment and cover from enemy fire. This is essential because mortars can be vulnerable to counter-battery fire and direct attacks once they are detected. Selecting a position that offers adequate cover helps to protect the crew and equipment from immediate threats, enabling them to operate more effectively. By using natural terrain features like hills, vegetation, or built structures, a mortar unit can reduce its visibility and minimize the risk of being targeted by the enemy.

Other factors, such as the visibility of enemy positions or distance from supply points, are also important, but they may be secondary to the priority of ensuring the safety and protection of the mortar crews. Concealment not only helps in survivability but also allows for more strategic positioning, increasing the effectiveness of the mortar operations without compromising the unit's security.