Ukrainian Army Trains with 120mm Scorpion Mobile Mortars.

According to a tweet from Ukrainian Front dated September 23, 2023, the Ukrainian army has begun training with 120mm Scorpion mobile mortars, distributed by Global Military Products, a private American company. Mortar systems play a crucial role in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, so let's delve into the technical features of this system.
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Video footage of Ukrainian Army training with Scorpion mortar (Picture source: Twitter account of Ukrainian Front)

The Scorpion mobile mortar system is designed to offer a balance between mobility and firepower. Originally developed by a Spanish company, it is internationally distributed by Global Military Products. The system allows an experienced two-person team to stop and fire the first salvo in just 45 seconds. Eleven more salvos can be fired in the following minute, making it an extremely responsive platform. The system can be deployed in about 30 seconds and is capable of firing 12 shells in one minute before slowing down to a rate of four shells per minute. Importantly, it can be folded back up, and the vehicle can move away in just 21 seconds after the last shot. This "shoot and scoot" capability significantly reduces the risk of being located and targeted by enemy counter-battery strikes.

The Scorpion is also equipped with a fully digital fire control system that uses GPS data to improve accuracy. It features an integrated weather station that automatically deploys to provide real-time data that can be used to adjust shots. These advanced technical features make the Scorpion an extremely effective and versatile mortar system.

The mortar has a maximum declared range of 7,180 meters for its HE shells. The Ukrainian industry has also developed a 120mm laser-guided mortar shell equipped with a HE fragmentation warhead, extending the range to 7,500 meters.

The Scorpion was sold to the Ukrainians in 2019 and has been mounted on BARS-8 vehicles. The BARS-8 is a multi-purpose armored vehicle, an evolution of the Bars-6, a multi-role armored utility vehicle. With a gross weight of 10,000 kg and a payload capacity of 2,000 kg, the BARS-8 is designed to transport armed personnel and equipment in hostile environmental conditions while offering increased protection against gunfire and mine blasts.

The vehicle can reach a maximum speed of 120 km/h and is powered by a 6.7-liter Cummins V8 diesel engine, producing an output power of 350 hp. It is also equipped with either an automatic or manual six-speed Allison transmission, which, combined with reinforced suspension and axles, allows it to operate effectively off-road. The BARS-8 can be configured for various roles, including as an armored personnel carrier, an armored ambulance, and of course, as a tactical mortar-firing vehicle.

It is designed to offer protection up to STANAG 4569 Level 2 against bullet fire and mine blasts. Roof-mounted smoke grenade launchers provide additional protection to the occupants. The vehicle can accommodate up to ten people, including three crew members, and is equipped with several armored doors and windows to ensure secure visibility and access.

In the current context of the conflict in Ukraine, where mobility and responsiveness are crucial, the Scorpion could well be a valuable addition to the Ukrainian arsenal. Artillery systems are heavily utilized in this conflict, and the addition of a mobile system is always welcome.