New tactics make Ukrainian use of M120 Rak mortars lethal
Ukrainians greatly value the Polish M120 Rak self-propelled mortars, and we have learned that after initial losses, they developed a new tactic for their use that ensures very effective results.
Unofficially, we learned from experts in Stalowa Wola that after the initial loss of at least two M120 Rak systems, Ukrainians developed a new tactic for their deployment. What does it involve? We still don't know because Ukrainian users do not wish to share details, but it is certain that the mortars, when used in this way, perform well on the battlefield. Consequently, they are interested in acquiring more of them.
Ukrainians received 24 M120 Rak self-propelled mortars under a decision made in April 2023, and the first photos from the front appeared in December 2023. The Raks, similar to the Krab howitzers, were used in the most demanding sections of the front. The current version of the Rak has a limitation regarding its range, which is restricted compared to howitzers.
It's worth noting that the production of the current version of Rak has ended at HSW, as any future orders will involve the upgraded turret system showcased at the International Defense Industry Exhibition 2024. This new version features, among other things, a barrel 32 calibres in length and an autoloader with a firing rate of 10-12 rounds per minute. The total production of the M120 Rak system consists of 120 units and two mortar prototypes, 60 command vehicles, 45 ammunition carriers, and 15 maintenance vehicles.
M120 Rak — A Polish modern mortar with huge 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. However, this is not the only version, as HSW has also developed a variant on the tracked chassis of the Borsuk.
One of the main advantages of the Polish mortar is its modular turret, an independent module that can be mounted on various platforms. This versatility allows it to be used as a fixed defensive element or installed on ship decks, similar to the solution used by Finns in the NEMO system.
The central component of the M120 Rak system is a 120 mm calibre mortar with a barrel length of 25 calibres, equipped with an autoloader and a full communication kit. A key feature of the M120 Rak self-propelled mortars is their integration with the TOPAZ fire control system, enabling real-time target information reception, for instance, from FlyEye drones, which allows for almost immediate targeting.
The M120 Rak can begin firing at targets within 30 seconds of stopping and can move again 15 seconds after firing the last shot. The system's range depends on the ammunition used and currently ranges from about 6 to 11 kilometres.
The Rak can fire a maximum of eight rounds per minute, allowing for quick depletion of the onboard stock of 46 rounds. This capability enables operation in an environment with artillery radars, where prolonged positioning can be dangerous, although the issue has been drones capable of tracking even moving targets.
Hence, the presentation of possible applications on the new turret showcased during MSPO 2024 includes Pangolin reactive armour blocks from WITU and plates with spikes, conceptually very similar to German rubber-ceramic Igelpanzerung mats. This combination with Ukrainian strategies could produce one of the most effective or among the best self-propelled mortars in the world.
