Poland Expands Its Borsuk IFV Offering with an M69 RAK M120 Mortar Turret at MSPO 2024.

At the MSPO 2024 defense exhibition, a significant advancement in the artillery capabilities of the Polish Armed Forces was unveiled by Huta Stalowa Wola, a member of the Polish Armaments Group (PGZ), presenting a new dimension in combat support with the RAK M120G mortar system. This advanced system, based on the amphibious infantry fighting vehicle (IFV) BORSUK chassis, is designed to enhance the firepower and survivability of support companies operating at the battalion and brigade levels. Poland thereby offers new possibilities to potential future buyers of this vehicle.
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The Borsuk is equipped with a 120 mm self-propelled mortar turret system named RAK M120G at MSPO 2024 (Picture source: ArmyRecognition)

The Borsuk is equipped with a 120 mm self-propelled mortar turret system named RAK M120G, making it essential for providing indirect, semi-indirect, and direct fire support. The primary role of this system is to neutralize enemy forces, including infantry and tank units, at the battalion or company level across various tactical operations. It is also capable of engaging high-value targets such as command posts, reconnaissance units, electronic warfare assets, and fortified positions, ensuring comprehensive battlefield suppression.

A key feature of this model is its improved turret system, which includes a longer barrel—exceeding 30 inches—allowing for an increased rate of fire, now reaching up to 10-12 rounds per minute, a significant improvement from the previous 6-8 rounds per minute. This increase in firepower is complemented by a reorganization of the mortar crew arrangement, optimizing operational efficiency and reducing the number of personnel required.

The M120G chassis retains the amphibious capabilities of the original BORSUK platform, ensuring it maintains buoyancy and operational flexibility in various terrains. Additionally, the system's survivability is greatly enhanced through the integration of modern self-defense solutions, including an active defense system designed to protect both the vehicle and its crew from incoming threats.

The vehicle is equipped with a range of advanced technologies to ensure its effectiveness in the field. These include an omnidirectional observation system, inertial navigation coupled with GPS and the SAASM module, a robust ICT system that maintains secure communication across BLACK and RED zones, and a remotely controlled weapons module for increased engagement options. The vehicle is also equipped with comprehensive protection measures such as a fire protection and explosion suppression system, filtration and ventilation devices, and a direct fire sight equipped with a laser rangefinder. Furthermore, the M120G is armored to meet the stringent ballistic protection standards of the Polish Armed Forces, ensuring its resilience in hostile environments.

To date, the BORSUK is primarily used by the Polish Armed Forces. Poland has undertaken the modernization of its army by gradually integrating the BORSUK into its infantry units. Several hundred BORSUKs have been deployed, with plans to extend this deployment to equip more infantry brigades in the coming years.

Discussions are ongoing with other nations interested in acquiring the BORSUK, notably in Eastern Europe and the Balkans, looking to strengthen their defense capabilities with modern and reliable vehicles. In March 2024, South Korea also expressed interest in a possible purchase of the BORSUK, although no official announcement has been made since.