Ukroboronprom, the Ukrainian state defense agency has completed the delivery of 120mm self-propelled mortar system BARS-8MMK to the Ukrainian army who has performed the first firing tests. The BARS-8MMK is a new mobile self-propelled mortar vehicle using the chassis of the BARS-8 4x4 wheeled armored vehicle.

BARS-8MMk 120mm self-propelled mortar carrier during firing tests by the Ukrainian army. (Picture source Ukroboronprom video footage)

The BARS-8MMK carries a 120 mortar which can be deployed automatically at the rear of the vehicle to perform firing operations. It takes only 30 seconds to bring this artillery system in firing condition, and the vehicle is able to leave the firing position in less than 20 seconds.

The BARS-8MMK has a crew of three and can carry up to 60 mortar ammunition. The vehicle is equipped with an integrated Fire Control system, which can be operated either from inside the cab or by a mortar team member standing alongside the vehicle. It has a maximum firing range of 8,000 meters and a rate of fire of 12 rounds/min.

The BARS-8 is a 4x4 armored vehicle designed and manufactured by the Ukrainian Company Bogdan. The vehicle is built on the Dodge Ram pick-up truck’s 4×4 wheeled chassis. It has a gross vehicle weight of 10,000 kg and a payload capacity of 2,000 kg.

The BARS-8 offers protection against firing of small arms and artillery shell splinters up to Level 2 STANAG 4569. The vehicle is motorized with a 6.7l Cummins V8 turbo diesel engine developing 350 hp. coupled to an Allison six-speed automatic or manual transmission system.

The BARS-8 can run at a maximum road speed of 120 km/h and has a fording depth of 0.76 m. It can climb a gradient of 60% and negotiate side slopes ranging from 20% to 40%.