Invention of Modern mortars prior to WW1. Butterflies?

Say that after Russo-Japanese war, the Russians create a stokes like mortar after evaluating the failings of the field artillery. What would the effect would this have on the doctrines of the various countries and more importantly, what effect could this have on WW1?
 
Say that after Russo-Japanese war, the Russians create a stokes like mortar after evaluating the failings of the field artillery. What would the effect would this have on the doctrines of the various countries and more importantly, what effect could this have on WW1?

Maybe more emphasis gets put on constructing field fortifications with over head cover ?

If smoke filled projectiles are developed maybe mortars are seen as facilitating offensive action ?

I suspect the initial World War One offensives would be even bloodier if mortars were in wide spread use.
 
The Japanese did produce a modern design mortar in the RJW. For whatever reason the IJA never followed through with production. IIRC the details are either in "Reports of Officers" (British) or that of the US Army observer during the war.
 
The Japanese did produce a modern design mortar in the RJW. For whatever reason the IJA never followed through with production. IIRC the details are either in "Reports of Officers" (British) or that of the US Army observer during the war.
Did they make light portable mortars or were they the super heavy ones like those used in the US civil war?
 
These were very light, portable infantry mortars. I really don't know why the IJA didn't put them into widespread production, as they were made because of the siege of Port Arthur. I have the info in my notes, but at present I am (Oh God, still...) remodeling the house and have NO clue where that particular notebook is. The inventor was IIRC, either a Col. or Major, don't remember. Here is a link that might be useful. https://www.ebooksdownloads.xyz/sea...s-in-manchuria-during-the-russo-japanese-war-
 
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