Scientists from the Joint Stock Company "Central Research Institute "Burevestnik"" have developed and patented a new platform for transporting a 120-mm mortar. The design is intended to speed up the crew's preparation for combat missions. It allows for the mechanization of loading and unloading one of the heaviest parts of the complex – the base plate.
The solution is intended both for creating new mortar systems and for modernizing existing ones. The main goal of the project is to reduce deployment time after arriving at a position and to speed up packing up when an operational change of location is necessary.
A key feature of the platform is the mechanism for raising and lowering the base plate with an electric cable winch and a swivel arm. Thanks to this, the crew does not have to perform the most labor-intensive operations manually. The mortar itself, on wheels, is placed across the body, and the freed space is used as efficiently as possible: standard ammunition packages, aiming devices, batteries, entrenching tools, and a spare parts kit are transported here.
The developers also provided for autonomous power supply for the equipment, a system for fixing components during transportation, and additional lighting for the work area. All of this should increase ease of use in the field and reduce the burden on personnel.
According to the creators, the new platform will allow mortar units to open fire faster, leave positions more quickly after completing a task, and more effectively utilize the capabilities of the 120-mm complex in the highly maneuverable conditions of modern combat operations.