MEPAC also Griffon MEPAC (Mortier Embarqué Pour l'Appui au Contact; English: Embedded mortar for contact support) is a French six-wheel self-propelled mortar carrier.
The system is to be integrated on a dedicated variant of the Griffon, designated Griffon MEPAC. An evolution of the Thales 2R2M 120 mm semi-automatic mortar system, it can fire up to ten rounds per minute against targets up to 13 km away with improved accuracy; the vehicle can then set itself in motion while closing the roof hatches at the same time.[2] Two new developments for the shells are expected; the MURAT 120 mm reduced-risk ammunition, offering a 12% increase in maximum range with no loss of effectiveness, and a metric-precision ammunition with a 15 km range.[3]
As it can be put into road position as quickly as into battery, it is designed to avoid counter-battery fire more easily, while providing better protection for the crew. The Griffon MEPAC, like the Griffon EPC, is virtually indistinguishable from the Griffon VTT Félin from the outside. Whereas the latter is designed to carry 10 fully-equipped soldiers, the MEPAC will accommodate a reduced crew of four artillerymen, namely the pilot, the gun leader and two soldiers operating the MEPAC. The chief will switch from the front of the vehicle during the driving phase, to a position at the rear to command the battery and firing.[4] Reducing the crew from five as originally intended to four has also freed up considerable space for additional ammunition.