The 128mm RAK-12 MLRS (Multiple Launch Rocket System) is a Croatian-built M-63 Plamen version developed in Yugoslavia in 1963. This powerful weapon boasts twelve 128 mm tubes, allowing it to be towed by lighter vehicles like Jeeps. Equipped with a range of rockets, the Croatian Army can deliver sudden and strong firepower over various terrains and in diverse weather conditions. This article will explore the features, applications, and variants of the 128mm RAK-12 MLRS.
Rockets and Range
The heart of the 128mm RAK-12 MLRS lies in its arsenal of rockets. It boasts two types of rockets: the M91, with a range of 8,500 meters, and the M93, which extends that range to a staggering 13,000 meters. These rockets are a force to be reckoned with, capable of neutralizing enemy personnel, artillery, command posts, communication centers, observation posts, paratrooper landing areas, transportation lines, harbors, and air bases.
Adaptability and Power
The RAK-12 MLRS is designed to excel in any battlefield scenario. Its lightweight construction, impressive range, and rocket destruction power make it highly versatile. Regardless of the terrain or weather conditions, this rocket launcher system stands ready to deliver devastating blows to the enemy. Equipped with 128mm caliber rockets such as the M91, M91A1, and M91A2, and fitted with fuses RUK M92 and RUTI M94, the RAK-12 guarantees optimal performance in a temperature range from -30 °C to +50 °C.
Swift Deployability
In the heat of battle, every second counts. The RAK-12 MLRS shines in conversion time, seamlessly transitioning from transport to firing configuration in a mere 1 minute and 30 seconds. Reverting from firing to transport configuration is equally efficient, taking just 1 minute. Manned by a well-coordinated crew of five soldiers led by a group commander, the RAK-12 MLRS ensures rapid deployment and maximum efficiency on the battlefield.
Transportation and Deployment
The 128mm RAK-12 MLRS is designed for quick and seamless transportation, allowing it to be swiftly deployed wherever needed. Its primary method of transportation is towing by truck, but it can also be moved by railway, ship, or aircraft. When empty, the launcher can be towed at impressive speeds of up to 80 km/h on asphalt roads, 50 km/h on off-road, and 25 km/h on challenging terrain. Even when loaded with rockets, it can reach up to 60 km/h on asphalt roads, 40 km/h on off-road, and 15 km/h on difficult terrain.
Export and Variants
The 128mm RAK-12 MLRS has garnered international attention, with exports to Azerbaijan (10 units) and Ukraine (2 units) further highlighting its growing reputation. This successful export showcases the trust and confidence in Croatia’s defense capabilities and the RAK-12 MLRS as a reliable and effective weapon system. Additionally, the LOV RAK-24 variant, featuring a self-propelled multiple rocket launcher mounted on the Croatian-made light armored personnel carrier LOV, enhances the system’s firepower and mobility, offering even greater versatility in the field.
Conclusion
Croatia’s RAK-12 MLRS has emerged as a true force multiplier in modern warfare challenges. With its devastating firepower, adaptability to diverse conditions, and swift deployment capabilities, the RAK-12 MLRS has become a crucial asset for the Croatian Army. Its range of rockets, including the M91 and M93, ensures that no target is out of reach, while its quick conversion time and well-trained crew enable rapid response on the battlefield.
The 128mm RAK-12 MLRS is not only making waves in Croatia but also gaining recognition on the global stage through its exports to Azerbaijan and Ukraine. This demonstrates the system’s effectiveness and other nations’ confidence in its capabilities. Moreover, the LOV RAK-24 variant, with its 24 128mm pipes mounted on a lightly armored personnel carrier, further enhances the firepower and mobility of the RAK-12 MLRS.
Technical specifications
| Country of origin: | Croatia | |
| Manufacturer: | M Adler D Ltd. | |
| Caliber: | 128mm | |
| A number of tubes: | 8540 m | |
| Up to 2,1 A | 12 | |
| Tube length: | 1200 mm | |
| Horizontal field of action: | ± 15° | |
| Vertical field of action: | -1° to 46° | |
| Fire modes: | burst fire | 12 rockets in 9,6 s |
| single rocket fire | 1 rocket in 1 s | |
| Remote controller cable length: | 25 m | |
| Battery: | 12 V / 7 Ah | |
| Battery charging voltage: | DC external source | 12 – 24 V |
| AC external source | public electric grid: 110 – 220 V | |
| Charging current: | up to 1A | |
| Impulse current: | Time to convert the launcher from the firing configuration to the transport configuration (launcher loaded): | |
| Impulse length: | 55 ms | |
| Launcher mass in transport: | 720 kg | |
| Launcher mass in firing position: | unloaded weapon | 695 kg |
| loaded weapon | 975 kg | |
| Spare parts and accessories box weight: | 25 kg | |
| Towing eye force: | 450 N | |
| Launcher length in transport configuration: | trails closed | 3740 mm |
| trails extended | 3785 mm | |
| Clearance in transport configuration: | 270 mm | |
| Track width: | 1550 mm | |
| Launcher width in transport configuration: | 1710 mm | |
| Width in combat configuration (trails extended): | 2890 mm | |
| Height of empty launcher: | 1300 mm | |
| Height in combat configuration (46° elevation): | 1885 mm | |
| Wheels dimensions: | 165R13 | |
| Time to load the launcher (rockets prepared in advance, equipped with fuses and armed): | 1 min 20 sec | |
| Up to 3 min 30 sec | Up to 1 min 30 sec | |
| Time to convert launcher from transport configuration to the firing configuration (rockets already loaded): | Up to 1 min | |
| Time to convert the launcher from the firing configuration to the transport configuration (launcher loaded): | up to 1 min | |
| Angular division: | 64 – 00 | |
| Traversing and elevation mechanism: | mechanical | |
| Firing control unit electricity usage – fire control unit switched on | up to 80 mA | |
| Firing control unit electricity usage – button ARM pressed | up to 190mA | |
| Firing control unit electricity usage – impulse usage with ARMED pressed | up to 2,4mA | |
| Operating temperature range: | -30° to 50°C | |
