Frag Out! Magazine
Issue link: https://fragout.uberflip.com/i/1220268
decision to abandon development of 120 mm towed mortars was jus- tified. Rak, meanwhile, perfectly fits the modern battlefield. It is a fully autonomous platform with advanced Topaz fire control suite that meets C3ITAR requirements. Also, notably, Rak's level of automation within the scope of engagements (and ammunition loading/storage procedures) is globally unparalleled. Thanks to the turret system Rak is also protected against WMDs and weather conditions. It also offers direct fire capability which, according to the end user, is a relevant yet underestimated feature. Thanks to the modern APR120 PGMs, the Polish mortars will also be able to effectively act against armored vehicles, thanks to the LPC-1 guidance system that renders the APR120 rounds indifferent to passive and active camouflage systems, active vehicle protection systems included. The new RAK-HE mortar bombs will provide the platform, in conjunction with the auto-loader and the Topaz system, with firepower placing it among the top solutions of its kind, globally. At the same time, SMK Rak is a part of a larg- er system, with numerous command vehicles, ammunition carriers, recon- naissance platforms and repair vehicles, all providing support that multi- plies the performance of the Rak mortars themselves. High quality and high reliability shall also be mentioned here. This is a result of the latest production equipment at HSW and strict QA process. The experience and expertise of HSW cannot be disregarded here as well. The Polish military would receive a system that has been designed and is being manufactured in Poland, with its capabilities being far better than those applicable to the competing series manufactured systems. Rak also outruns solutions that have been developed in other countries without implementation so far. The IP rights and cost control over the lifetime are also domestically avail- able. All of the above makes the Rak project an unprecedented success of the domestic defense industry. We shall only hope that HSW's programs aimed at development of the ZSSW-30 remote-control turret and Borsuk IFV will serve as further examples of capability and skills of the Polish engineers and Polish production facilities, within the scope of designing and delivering 21st century weapons systems. Photo: Patria www.fragoutmag.com