The Gratenwerfer No. 16 was a German trench mortar used during World War I, specifically designed for close-range support in trench warfare. This light, smoothbore mortar was easy to transport and deploy, making it ideal for launching explosive bombs over short distances to target enemy trenches and fortifications. Manufactured by Germany, the Gratenwerfer No. 16 was part of a larger strategy to overcome the challenges of static trench warfare. The mortar bombs, typically fin-stabilized for improved accuracy, were loaded with high explosives and designed to detonate on impact, causing significant damage to enemy positions. Its simple design allowed soldiers to fire quickly and with relative safety from within their own trenches. This weapon was instrumental in increasing the use of indirect fire in the war, playing a key role in trench assaults by disrupting enemy defenses and fortifications. The Gratenwerfer No. 16 represents an important piece of military innovation from World War I, reflecting the evolving nature of combat during the conflict.