The objectiveof the HELTDprogramis to demonstrate that a mobile, solid-statelaserweaponsystemcaneffectivelycounterrocket, artillery, andmortarprojectiles, Boeingofficialssay.
The 60mm mortar is a weapon that traditionally requires three to four Marines to operate, but it's common during training for others to observe nearby.
The investigation will focus on whether the Marines followed procedures to properly fire the weapon, whether there was a malfunction in the firing device or in the explosive mortar itself, the official said.