Polish self-propelled Mortars bolster Ukrainian front-line defense
Self-propelled mortars M120 RAK are among the Polish weapons that have reached the front as part of the support for Ukraine. The local soldiers highly commend their capabilities, with some even considering them the best equipment of their kind currently available to the Ukrainian army.
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 line only in December 2023. Although recordings of them are not often shared on social media, the mortars produced by Huta Stalowa Wola have been deployed in the Ukrainian army and have proved to be a significant reinforcement.
Ukrainians appreciate Polish M120 RAK
Defence Express noted Ukrainian servicemen's opinions regarding the self-propelled mortars M120 RAK. They quoted one of the crew commanders using the callsign "Mityai," who stated that M120 RAK is the most effective in offensive actions among all such weapons in the Ukrainian army.
Crews operating these Polish vehicles usually do so 4 to 6 kilometres from the main front line, using them to support assault actions. "At this distance, the M120 RAK hits perfectly," claims the Ukrainian serviceman.
Self-propelled mortars M120 RAK are valued not only for their fire efficiency and the TOPAZ battle management system but also for their mobility and rapid transition from transport to combat position. The Ukrainians also appreciate firing in MRSI (Multiple Rounds Simultaneous Impact) mode.
Great capabilities of M120 RAK
The M120 RAK's armament is a 120 mm mortar with a barrel length of 25 calibres. The range of impact depends on the ammunition used, but it can reach 11 kilometres at maximum range.
The M120 RAK is based on the wheeled chassis of the KTO Rosomak transporter. Its engine produces nearly 500 horsepower, which, according to Ukrainians, can achieve a maximum speed of slightly over 100 kilometres per hour, higher than the manufacturer claims. The crew commander quoted by Defence Express, using the callsign "Bob," claims that this capability allowed them to escape an attack by Russian drones during one mission.
