MSPO 2021: HSW and PGZ unveil Baobab-K mine-laying system.

Baobab-K scattered mine-laying platform enables deployment of minefields of various sizes, densities and self-destruction times. The minefield laying process has been fully automated: both rotation and movements of the platforms with launchers (mine throwers) are carried out automatically by using a control station, which allows quick transition from transport to combat mode and vice-versa.

Baobab-K mine-laying system (Picture source: Army Recognition)

In automatic mode, the computer calculates the speed of the vehicle, launcher setting, and adjusts the frequency of launching mines while driving to ensure the respect of the selected minefield. Additionally, minefield parameters and coordinates of minefield corners are recorded on digital maps displayed on the computer screen. All the data can then be sent by radio to a higher command level.

The parameters controlled concern six mine throwers (interchangeable barrel packages), a lifting system enabling quick refilling of mines and taking up another combat task, time of reloading (inferior to 30 minutes), laying range (30 to 90 meters) with the possibility of throwing mines on both sides and to the rear of the vehicle, and the laying speed (from 5 to 25 km/h).

The vehicle is equipped with an onboard computer, imaging terminal with digital map, FONET intercom, RRC 9311AP VHF transceiver, GPS and odometer, active defense – 8 detection heads with 8 smoke grenade launchers and associated control panel (delivered separately; to be mounted in the cab) –, HIAB lifting system, tester for mine cassettes (delivered separately as an accessory), simulator (optional).

The chassis comes from a JELCZ 8x8 truck. It has a 20-foot container frame thanks to which, after dismantling the mine-laying platform, it can be used as a standard transport truck. The whole vehicle with its mine-laying system weighs 31,700 kg. It can reach 85 km/h, with a 1,650 km range on-road or about 580 km off-road.