On April 19, 2024, Uralvagonzavod, a Russian combat vehicle manufacturer, released a new video depicting a visit by Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu. During this visit, it was announced that the production of TOS-1A Solntsepek heavy flamethrower missile launcher systems has increased by 250%.
This increase is a response to increased demand for these powerful weapons by Russian forces, particularly in the context of ongoing military operations in Ukraine.
Russia continues to use Iskander-M tactical missiles to target the Ukrainian armed forces, but the TOS-1A system is considered one of the most destructive weapons in the world.
The TOS-1A, known for its devastating firepower, is a key component of Russia’s artillery arsenal, and has been actively deployed on battlefields since the start of the conflict with Ukraine in February 2022.
It is described as one of the most destructive weapons systems in the world
The TOS-1A functions similarly to a multiple rocket launcher system (MLRS), firing 220 mm rockets equipped with a thermobaric mixture capable of generating extreme heat that consumes the area’s oxygen, effectively annihilating targets within its range.
The decision to ramp up production does not only come from increasing production capacity, but also reflects the strategic importance of these systems on the battlefield.
Information indicated that approximately 50 units of the TOS-1A and its successor, the TOS-2, were in service in Ukraine. In response to the threats these Russian systems face, particularly from Ukrainian drone and cruise missile attacks, the Russians have made improvements to their armoring.
The “Cope Cage” armor installation aims to protect against First Person View (FPV) drone strikes and stray munitions, while the Volnorez mobile electronic warfare (EW) system provides additional defensive capabilities against electronic threats.
Despite these upgrades, the Russian military has suffered significant losses, with the loss of 20 TOS-1A units reported as actual so far.
What is the formidable Russian missile system that is changing the situation on the battlefield
The TOS-1A Solntsepyok heavy missile system, deployed by Russian forces in Ukraine since the beginning of the invasion in February 2022, is known for its formidable capabilities.
Mounted on a modified T-72 or T-90 tank chassis, the TOS-1A fires thermobaric missiles that are highly effective against fortified positions, personnel in open terrain, and lightly armored vehicles.
Its thermobaric warheads use a fuel-air explosive to create a high-temperature explosion, consuming oxygen from the surrounding air to enhance the detonation effect.
The destructive power of the TOS-1A is very important for Russia in the conflict with Ukraine
The reason has to do with the psychological impact on the battlefield due to this system’s ability to cause sudden and widespread damage over a wide area, wiping out large numbers of enemy forces.
Additionally, the thermobaric nature of its ammunition is particularly lethal in enclosed spaces where the blast and heat can be more contained and therefore more destructive.
Its operational range and improvements to its shooting abilities
Initially, the TOS-1A had a maximum range of approximately 6 km, but recent upgrades have extended this to 10 km, enhancing its effectiveness in various combat scenarios.
The TOS-1A is equipped with a missile launch station that holds 24 missiles, and each system is capable of covering an area of up to 40,000 square meters. The system fires 220 mm range missiles equipped with a fuel-air explosive that can generate extreme temperatures of up to 3,000 degrees Celsius upon detonation.
This intense heat not only causes immediate destruction, but also consumes all the oxygen in the area, creating a high pressure wave that can destroy infantry and equipment.
