Polish mortars bolster Ukrainian forces with speed and precision
The 44th Independent Mechanized Brigade of the Ukrainian army is one of the units that utilize Western armored vehicles. It is equipped with German Leopard tanks and the self-propelled mortar M120 RAK from Poland, which Ukrainian soldiers highly praise.
6:08 PM EST, November 22, 2024
Unlike many other Polish weapons, the self-propelled mortar M120 RAK is not commonly featured in frontline reports. However, Ukrainians openly acknowledge that this equipment has significantly reinforced their army. The decision to support Ukraine with the M120 RAK self-propelled mortars was made in April 2023, but the first units appeared on the frontline only in December 2023.
M120 RAK from Poland in Ukraine
A video was published on the UNITED24 channel on YouTube, where members of the 44th Independent Mechanized Brigade showcased Western armored vehicles. Journalists met with soldiers operating these vehicles to discuss their capabilities and role in Ukraine. There was also a segment dedicated to the M120 RAK.
One of the Ukrainian soldiers highlights the large size of the M120 RAK, as well as the comfort and safety it provides to the crew. Additionally, the soldier notes the ability to start firing within just 30 seconds after stopping as a crucial feature, given the dynamic battlefield conditions. Ukrainian soldiers also appreciate the chassis (the designers used the chassis of the KTO Rosomak transporter) and the engine that allows very efficient and fast movement both on roads and off-road as advantages of the M120 RAK. According to them, they can easily reach and even exceed the speed of 50 mph, which is the stated maximum by the manufacturer.
Great capabilities of mortars from Poland
Huta Stalowa Wola's mortars are among the newest systems of this type in the world. They offer good accuracy and a firing range of, depending on the type of ammunition, from 4 to 8 miles. Importantly, the main armament is a 120 mm mortar with a barrel length of 25 calibers, but the designers also incorporated features such as an optronic sight with a thermal imaging camera and laser rangefinder, the TOPAZ battle management system, and the FONET internal communication system.
The M120 RAK can fire up to 46 shells. According to Ukrainian soldiers from the 44th Independent Mechanized Brigade, this is the only aspect where they feel more could be expected. However, this does not change their overall assessment of this Polish weapon.
