Recent images released on the Facebook page of Ukraine's 44th Brigade reveal a significant advancement in the country's military capabilities. As of December 10, 2023, the Ukrainian armed forces have officially incorporated the first units of the Polish-made RAK 120 Wheeled 8x8 self-propelled mortar carrier armored vehicles into their arsenal.
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The first Polish-made RAK 120 self-propelled mortar carrier vehicles are now in service with the Ukrainian army. (Picture source Facebook Ukraine's 44th Brigade)
Earlier in April 2023, the Army Recognition editorial team had reported an agreement for Ukraine to acquire 54 of these Polish-made RAK 120 8x8 120mm self-propelled mortar carrier armored vehicles. This acquisition was confirmed during a visit by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to Warsaw, where Polish President Andrzej Duda announced on April 5, 2023.
Poland's support for Ukraine in its ongoing conflict with Russia has been pivotal. The country has provided substantial military aid, including a range of military equipment and ammunition. This assistance includes artillery, armored vehicles, and drones, encompassing both Soviet-era equipment, compatible with Ukraine's current arsenal, and modern Western-made armaments. Such diverse support has significantly enhanced Ukraine's defensive capabilities.
Additionally, Poland has played a key role in facilitating the transfer of international aid to Ukraine. It has become a crucial transit point for NATO country supplies, ensuring a continuous flow of support to Ukraine. Beyond material aid, Poland has also contributed through training and logistical support, underscoring its commitment to Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity.
The RAK 120, a sophisticated mortar system, is built on the chassis of the Rosomak 8x8 wheeled armored vehicle. Produced by the Polish Defense Company Huta Stalowa Wola (HSW), this system is designed for a variety of combat scenarios, including indirect, semi-direct, and direct fire against mechanized units, command posts, observation points, and fortifications.
Equipped with a two-man turret, the RAK 120 features a 120mm breech-loaded mortar system with a barrel length of 3,000mm. Its secondary armament comprises a 7.62mm UKM 2000 D machine gun, paired with a BAZALT day-night gun sight. The mortar has a firing rate of six to eight rounds per minute and can reach a maximum range of 10 km. It is capable of firing at elevation angles ranging from -3° to 80° and can traverse 360°.
The system's efficiency is further enhanced by its automatic loading mechanism, which holds 20 projectiles for immediate use, with an additional 26 stored in the crew compartment. Advanced targeting capabilities are provided by an optoelectronic direct fire sight with a thermal imaging camera, laser range finder, automatic aiming system, and a WB Electronics computerized fire-control system, ensuring precise target engagement.
A Polish army RAK 120 8x8 120mm self-propelled mortar carrier at MSPO defense exhibition in Poland. (Picture source Army Recognition Group)
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