Initially handicapped by its short range compared to similar Second World War mortars, improvements of the propellant charges enabled it to be used with great satisfaction by various armies of the British Empire and of the Commonwealth.

Based on their experience in the First World War, the British infantry sought some sort of artillery for close support.

The initial plan was for special batteries of artillery, but the cost was prohibitive and the mortar was accepted instead.

Experience in the early part of the war showed that, although the Mark II was reliable and sturdy, it did not have sufficient range compared to the German 81 mm s.GW.34 mortar.

[6] The Mark II remained in service with the British Army until replaced by the L16 81mm mortar in 1965.