Russia’s newest self-propelled mortars (SPMs), the Floks and Drok, made their international debut at the IDEX show being held in Abu Dhabi between 17–21 February, with models of both systems being displayed for the first time.
A previously unseen model of the 120 mm Floks self-propelled mortar on display at IDEX 2019. (Dmitry Fediushko)
A representative of the systems’ manufacturer, Rostec’s Uralvagonzavod (UVZ), told Jane’s that the Floks 120 mm SPM is designed to enhance the firepower of mechanised infantry. “The system is based on the chassis of a protected Ural-4320 family 6×6 truck that features all-round protection against small arms. The Floks carries a 120 mm rifled semi-automatic gun-mortar that fires both mortar and artillery shells. The system features a separate [gun] drive that substantially reduces circular error probable,” said the source.
The Floks is also fitted with a roof-mounted remotely controlled weapon station (RCWS) with a 7.62 mm machine gun as well as a laser warning system and optical jammer, he added.
The model of the 82 mm Drok. (Dmitry Fediushko)
The Drok 82 mm SPM based on the Taifun-VDV 4×4 mine-resistant ambush-protected vehicle is primarily intended for rapid deployment troops, the UVZ source said. The system is armed with a manual breech-loading mortar mounted in a turret. It fires both standard 82 mm mortar shells and new ammunition with increased range and lethality.
“The Drok can carry an additional 82 mm 2B24 towed mortar and an RCWS,” added the source. The mortar [system] weighs 14 tonnes and carries four crew. “The system is fitted with an optical jammer and six smoke dischargers.”
A source from the Russian Ministry of Defence told Jane’s that the system would be subject to state trials this year.
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