Ukraine's new strategy boosts performance of Polish M120 Rak
Ukrainians highly value the Polish M120 Rak self-propelled mortars. We've learned that after experiencing initial losses, they developed a new tactic that ensures very effective results.
Unofficially, experts in Stalowa Wola informed us that after losing at least two M120 Rak systems, Ukrainians devised a new deployment strategy. The details remain undisclosed, as Ukrainian users prefer not to share them, but it is clear that the mortars perform well with this approach. As a result, there is interest in acquiring more units.
In April 2023, Ukrainians received 24 M120 Rak self-propelled mortars, and the first photos from the front emerged in December 2023. Like the Krab howitzers, the Raks were deployed in the most demanding parts of the front. The primary limitation of the current Rak version is its range compared to howitzers.
Notably, the current version of Rak production has concluded at HSW. Future orders will pertain to the upgraded turret system displayed at the International Defense Industry Exhibition 2024, featuring a barrel 32 calibers in length and an autoloader capable of firing 10-12 rounds per minute. The total M120 Rak production amounts to 120 pieces, along with two mortar prototypes, 60 command vehicles, 45 ammunition carriers, and 15 maintenance vehicles.
M120 Rak — a Polish modern mortar with significant potential
Produced since 2016, the M120 Rak is a modern self-propelled mortar designed by HSW and mounted on the wheeled chassis of the KTO Rosomak transporter. HSW has also developed a version on the tracked chassis of the Borsuk.
One of the main advantages of the Polish mortar is its modular turret, which can be mounted on various platforms, allowing for use as a fixed defensive element or on ship decks, akin to the Finns' NEMO system.
The central component of the M120 Rak system is a 120 mm caliber mortar with a barrel length of 25 calibers, equipped with an autoloader and a comprehensive communication kit. A key feature is its integration with the TOPAZ fire control system, enabling real-time target information reception from sources like FlyEye drones and allowing for near-instant targeting.
The M120 Rak can commence firing within 30 seconds of stopping and can move 15 seconds after the last shot. Its range varies with the ammunition used, currently spanning about 4 to 7 miles.
With a maximum firing rate of eight rounds per minute, the Rak can quickly deplete its onboard stock of 46 rounds. This capability is crucial in environments with artillery radars, where lingering too long can be hazardous, despite drones capable of tracking moving targets.
The presentation of potential applications of the new turret during MSPO 2024 included Pangolin reactive armor blocks from WITU and plates with spikes conceptually akin to German rubber-ceramic Igelpanzerung mats. This combination with Ukrainian innovations could create one of the world's most effective self-propelled mortars.
