Currently, a 120-mm mortar complex with the working name MZ-304 “Highlander” 120-mm self-propelled mortar is being tested. The MZ-204 Highlander is a Tigr-M armored vehicle with a 120-mm artillery system mounted at the stern of the vehicle with electric guidance in elevation and azimuth. For the first time, the MZ-304 “Highlander” self-propelled mortar complex based on the SBM “Tiger” armored car was demonstrated at the closed exhibition of the Army-2016 international arms exhibition. The MZ-204 Highlander self-propelled mortar has successfully passed the relevant tests.
The main advantage of this development over foreign counterparts is the location of the combat crew of the system inside the Tigr hull during firing. What positively distinguishes the “Highlander” from its foreign counterparts, if necessary, the mortar barrel is easily dismantled and, using the base plate and carriage available on the machine, turns into a regular 120 mm mortar. When firing, the calculation of the self-propelled mortar complex is located inside the Tiger armored corps.
All operations for the preparation and firing of mortars are carried out without leaving the calculation of the car. In this case, the barrel of the mortar lowers horizontally. Through a special charging window that closes with an armor shutter, the loader charges the mine through the muzzle of the mortar. After that, the mortar barrel automatically takes up a position for firing.The situation and the data about the targets are displayed on the color multifunctional LCD monitor of the calculation commander. The Highlander could use adjustable ammunition, in particular the 120mm high-precision guided mine Gran.
