Analysis: Russia Enhances Mobile Anti-Tank Capabilities in Ukraine with MT-LB Armed MT-12 100mm Gun.

On December 3, 2024, the Telegram channel weaponsrusq reported that a modified MT-LB armored vehicle equipped with the MT-12 Rapira 100mm anti-tank gun was observed in Ukraine. This vehicle, nicknamed MT-LB-12, has been seen on several occasions at the front lines, being used for both direct and indirect fire roles. Produced by both Ukraine and Russia, this improvised self-propelled howitzer can fire 9M117 anti-tank guided missiles and high-explosive shells for indirect fire, with a maximum range of 8,200 meters. This adaptation highlights the MT-LB's versatility and widespread availability, underscoring its continued role as a key platform for improvised military modifications.
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In Ukraine, the MT-LB-12 vehicle has been employed by both sides as an improvised self-propelled artillery system, leveraging the MT-LB’s mobility to reposition the gun for direct or indirect fire roles. (Picture source: Telegram/weaponsrusq)

The MT-LB is a tracked, amphibious vehicle introduced in the 1970s to replace the AT-P series artillery tractors. Its design incorporates components from the PT-76 amphibious tank and features a low-profile, welded steel hull that provides basic protection against small arms fire and shell fragments. Over 55,000 units were produced, including specialized variants such as the MT-LBu for command and control. The MT-LB’s primary strengths include its amphibious capability and cross-country mobility, making it effective in snow and swamp environments. Initially developed as a utility vehicle, it was not intended for direct combat due to its light armor and reliance on a medium machine gun for self-defense. Despite these limitations, the vehicle remains in global service, adapted for roles such as troop transport, artillery towing, command, and engineering support.

The MT-12 Rapira anti-tank gun entered service in 1970 as an improved version of the T-12 model. This 100-mm smoothbore gun features a redesigned carriage and shield for enhanced crew protection and compatibility with towing vehicles like the MT-LB. The MT-12 fires various munitions, including APFSDS rounds with a muzzle velocity of 1,575 meters per second, capable of penetrating up to 230 mm of armor at 500 meters. HEAT rounds are effective against targets up to 5,955 meters, penetrating 350 mm of armor, while HE-FRAG rounds enable indirect fire. The MT-12K variant, introduced in 1981, added the capability to launch 9M117 guided missiles, increasing the range to 4,500 meters and penetrating up to 600 mm of steel or reactive armor. In Ukraine, the MT-12 has been deployed in both defensive and offensive roles, including by Russian forces in the South Donetsk direction in December 2023.

In Ukraine, the MT-LB-12 vehicle has been employed by both sides as an improvised self-propelled artillery system, leveraging the MT-LB’s mobility to reposition the gun for direct or indirect fire roles. Ukrainian forces, including units like the Kraken Regiment, have deployed these systems against armored targets and fortified positions. Similarly, Russian forces have used this combination, reflecting a shared strategy of adapting legacy platforms to contemporary demands. The MT-12 Rapira's integration with the MT-LB chassis enhances mobility, allowing rapid repositioning and shoot-and-scoot tactics to reduce vulnerability to counter-battery fire. The MT-LB’s amphibious and cross-country capabilities complement the MT-12’s direct and indirect fire potential, though ergonomic issues such as limited crew space and ammunition storage remain challenges.

In fact, the MT-LB/MT-12 combination has notable limitations. The MT-LB’s light armor provides minimal protection against small arms, anti-tank weapons, and artillery fragments, while its lack of mine-resistance increases the risk to the crew. The vehicle's design also limits crew space and ammunition storage. The MT-12 "Rapira" gun has small vertical aiming angles and can become unstable during firing, causing it to "jump" and bounce back if not securely positioned. The close proximity of the muzzle to the ground, combined with the power of the projectile, results in significant recoil, along with visible dust and fire from the muzzle brake, potentially revealing the system's location. These factors reduce the overall operational effectiveness of the system in contemporary combat scenarios.

The MT-LB has also been adapted to mount various other weapons, including BMP-1 turrets, 82-mm Vasilek mortars, 120-mm Nona-S gun-mortars, and ZU-23 anti-aircraft guns. Russian modifications include naval turrets, 140-mm rocket launchers, and explosive-laden kamikaze vehicles. Ukrainian variants feature slatted armor, heavy machine guns, and Serdar remote weapon stations. These adaptations underline the versatility of the MT-LB platform despite its light armor and limited crew protection.

The continued use of the MT-LB-12 in Ukraine highlights the practical adaptation of Soviet-era equipment to meet current tactical requirements. While these systems have limitations, their availability and flexibility enhance firepower and mobility in resource-constrained environments. This reflects broader trends in modern conflict, where legacy equipment is repurposed for evolving operational needs.