Poland’s M120 RAK mortars impact Ukraine's frontline battles
The 44th Independent Mechanized Brigade of the Ukrainian army is one of the units that utilize Western armoured vehicles. It is equipped with German Leopard tanks and the self-propelled mortar M120 RAK from Poland, which Ukrainian soldiers praise highly.
Unlike many other Polish weapons, the self-propelled mortar M120 RAK is not a common sight in frontline reports. However, Ukrainians openly acknowledge that this equipment has been a significant reinforcement for their army. The decision to support Ukraine with the self-propelled mortars M120 RAK 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 armoured vehicles. Journalists met with soldiers operating these vehicles to discuss their capabilities and work in Ukraine. There was also a segment dedicated to the M120 RAK.
One Ukrainian soldier emphasizes the large size of the M120 RAK, as well as the comfort and safety it provides to the crew. Additionally, the soldier highlights the ability to start firing just 30 seconds after stopping, which is crucial in the dynamic battlefield conditions. Ukrainian soldiers also view the chassis (designed using the chassis of the KTO Rosomak transporter) and the engine that enables fast and efficient movement both on roads and in terrains as advantages of the M120 RAK. According to them, they can easily reach and even exceed speeds of 80 km/h, which the manufacturer states as the maximum.
Great capabilities of mortars from Poland
Mortars produced by Huta Stalowa Wola rank among the newest systems of this type globally. They provide good accuracy and a firing range, depending on the type of ammunition, from 6 kilometres to 13 kilometres. Importantly, the main armament is a 120 mm mortar with a barrel length of 25 calibres, and the designers have incorporated solutions 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 number of shells that can be fired from the M120 RAK is 46. According to Ukrainian soldiers from the 44th Independent Mechanized Brigade, this is the only aspect where there could be improvements. However, this does not detract from the overall very high assessment of this Polish weapon.
