Polish M120 RAK: Game-changer for Ukrainian frontline
Self-propelled mortars M120 RAK are among the Polish weapons that have reached the front as part of support for Ukraine. Local soldiers highly praise their capabilities, with some even believing that they are the best equipment of their kind currently available to the Ukrainian army.
7:11 PM EDT, September 26, 2024
The decision to deliver self-propelled mortars M120 RAK to Ukraine was made in April 2023, but the first of these vehicles appeared on the front only in December 2023. Although recordings with them are not often published on social media, the mortars produced by Huta Stalowa Wola have been deployed in the Ukrainian army and have proved to be a tangible reinforcement.
Ukrainians appreciate Polish M120 RAK
Defence Express noted Ukrainian servicemen's opinions about the self-propelled mortar M120 RAK. They quoted one of the crew commanders using the callsign "Mityai," who stated that the M120 RAK is the most effective in offensive actions among all such weapons in the Ukrainian army.
Crews using these Polish vehicles usually operate at a distance of 3 to 4 miles from the main front line and use them to support assault actions. "At this distance, the M120 RAK hits perfectly," claims the Ukrainian serviceman.
Self-propelled mortars M120 RAK are appreciated not only for their fire efficiency and the TOPAZ battle management system but also for their mobility and rapid transition from transport to combat positions. The Ukrainians also appreciate the option of firing in MRSI (Multiple Rounds Simultaneous Impact) mode.
Great capabilities of M120 RAK
The M120 RAK's armament is a 120 mm caliber mortar with a barrel length of 25 calibers. The range of impact depends on the ammunition used, but it can reach 7 miles.
The M120 RAK is based on the wheeled chassis of the KTO Rosomak transporter. Its engine produces nearly 500 HP, which, according to Ukrainians, can achieve a maximum speed of slightly over 62 mph, higher than the manufacturer claims. The crew commander quoted by Defence Express, using the callsign "Bob," claims that this allowed them to escape an attack by Russian drones during one mission.
