Russia Launches First Robotic 120mm Self-Propelled Mortar System.

At Army-2024, defense exhibition held in Russia, a new autonomous artillery system was launched offering the first self-propelled mortar system based on the 4x4 unmanned ground vehicle (UGV) platform dubbed "Quadriga” armed with a 2B11 120mm mortar, marking a new era in autonomous battlefield capabilities.
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The new robotic self-propelled mortar system presented for the first time at Army-2024 is based on the Quadriga 4x4 unmanned ground vehicle armed with a 2B11 120mm mortar. (Picture source: Defense Market News magazine)

The Quadriga UGV (Unmanned Ground Vehicle) armed with the 2B11 mortar is designed with a primary objective to enhance battlefield efficiency by delivering powerful mortar fire while ensuring high mobility and stealth. The integration of the 2B11 120mm mortar allows the system to effectively destroy and neutralize enemy personnel, fortifications, and firepower from a distance. This unmanned system offers a significant advantage in terms of reducing the risks to human operators by operating autonomously or remotely, depending on mission requirements.

The Quadriga UGV is built on a robust 4x4 wheeled chassis, specifically engineered to handle rough terrains and maintain stability under combat conditions. The 2B11 mortar mounted on the Quadriga has a maximum firing range of 7 km, providing substantial coverage on the battlefield. One of the standout features of this system is its rapid deployment capability; it can transition from a marching position to a combat-ready state in just 2 minutes, and vice versa, ensuring swift response times in dynamic combat situations.

In terms of firepower, the 2B11 mortar mounted on the Quadriga can deliver up to 10 rounds per minute, making it a formidable tool for sustained bombardment. The system carries a total of 16 mortar rounds, allowing for multiple engagements before needing resupply. The UGV's load capacity is tailored to support this ammunition load, along with any additional equipment necessary for operations.

The Quadriga's mobility is further enhanced by its ability to run up to 800 kilometers on a single refuel, a substantial range that underscores its operational endurance. Despite its power and load, the UGV can achieve a maximum speed of 30 km/h, facilitating rapid repositioning across the battlefield. This speed, combined with the vehicle's low noise output, ensures that it can move between firing positions with minimal risk of detection, a crucial factor in modern warfare where stealth and surprise are often decisive.

The introduction of the Quadriga self-propelled mortar system marks a significant step forward in Russia's military robotics program. By integrating advanced unmanned systems with traditional artillery, Russia is setting a new standard for how ground forces might operate in Ukrainian conflict. The autonomous nature of the system reduces the risk to human life and allows for operations in hazardous environments where traditional manned vehicles would be at significant risk.

Military analysts suggest that the Quadriga could serve as a force multiplier, providing critical fire support in scenarios where conventional mortar teams would be vulnerable. Its ability to operate independently for extended periods, coupled with its rapid deployment capabilities, positions it as a key asset in both defensive and offensive operations.

As global military powers continue to explore the integration of robotics into their armed forces, the Quadriga's self-propelled mortar launch highlights Russia's commitment to maintaining its edge in unmanned military technology. The future battlefield will likely see more such innovations as nations seek to balance firepower, mobility, and the safety of their personnel in increasingly complex operational environments.

Russia's unveiling of the Quadriga UGV-based self-propelled mortar system represents a notable advancement in military technology, combining the lethality of the 120mm mortar with the versatility and stealth of an unmanned platform. As this system enters service, it is poised to reshape tactics and strategies on the battlefield, heralding a new chapter in autonomous warfare.