A new Ukrainian 120mm mortar complex “Bars-8MMK” based on “Bars-8” armored vehicle designed and manufactured by “Bogdan” Corporation, has been successfully tested at the Armed Forces’ training ground, the Corporation’s press-service informs.
Due to “Bars-8” proven technology this Ukrainian weapon could boast of high speed performance and maneuverability. The strongly armored vehicle could be used in any road condition.
“The new Ukrainian mobile mortar complex “Bars-8MMK” is equipped with an automatized deployment and firing control system. It could be instantly moved to the necessary firing point; its computer system allows ground positioning; preparation for shooting from the original position takes only 1 minute. Besides, the mobile complex needs around 20 more seconds to leave the firing point avoiding the enemy’s backfire”, – Oleksandr Turchynov, Chairman of the National Security and Defense Council, notes.
He added that manufacturers have managed to reach the maximum deployment and stowage speed, the ability to move off-road, the ability to hit the target with high accuracy, and, most importantly, they’ve provided safety of its use.
In O. Turchynov’s opinion, that after the state tests are completed, the mobile mortar complex would be used by the Ground Forces, Air Assault Forces, and Special Operations Forces.
To remind, “Bars-8” armored vehicle has been designed by specialists of the Car Assembly Plant #2 in Cherkasy, according to world standards and the demands of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. The vehicle is built on all-terrain 4×4 wheeled chassis and is equipped with 6.7L Cummins turbo diesel engine. “Bars-8” offers: STANAG 4569 Level 2 standard protection against bullet fires and mine blasts, crew support systems, smoke grenade launchers, communication and navigation systems, night and day observation devices, RunFlat tire inflation system, fire extinguishing system installed at engine compartment, camouflage coverings, ballistic protection of the body, autonomous climate system.
The specialized armored cars based on “Bars-8” vehicle allow installing various weapon stations, particularly, they could serve as artillery reconnaissance armored vehicles, mobile mortars, medical vehicles, etc. Despite the fact that “Bars-8” family is designed to be used by the Armed Forces of Ukraine in combat situations, the vehicle can be configured to perform different roles such as: armored personnel carrier, cargo transporter, tactical armored vehicle to be used at checkpoints and elsewhere as well as a medical vehicle. The basic sitting capacity is 8 to 10 persons in full uniform. Comfortable access to the crew compartment is enabled by two wide side and rear doors. In case of danger, the troops could evacuate through the hatch on top of the vehicle.
*Photos by NSDC press-service
