The Armed Forces of the Russian Federation received new TOS-1A "Solntsepek" with improved protection against drones: analysts' assessment

Share: On November 13, the Russian "Uralvagonzavod" announced the delivery of a new batch of TOS-1A "Solntsepek" heavy flamethrower systems to the Russian troops. A key innovation in the system is the integration of a modernized complex of protection against drones, developed "taking into account the experience of combat use. " Serial products were allowed to be transferred only after a full cycle of field tests, which confirmed the reliability of all mechanisms and devices.

This was reported by the press service of the Rostec corporation. And a video with tests of the modernized TOS-1A system was published on the Uralvagonzavoda channel. Commenting on the news, columnists of the specialized publication Army Recognition noted that Russia continues to strengthen the potential of heavy fire support in the Ukrainian direction, and is not going to reduce it.

Analysts write that the TOS-1A remains a specialized heavy flamethrower system based on the T-72 tank chassis, designed for fire support at short and medium distances. The complex uses unguided rockets of thermobaric and high-explosive fragmentation action at ranges from several hundred meters to six kilometers. A simultaneous salvo can cover an area of ​​up to 40,000 square meters.

m, which makes the system a tool for rapid destruction of fortified strongholds, command posts of UAVs, concentrations of manpower and equipment. It is also noted that the inclusion of a new anti-drone system in the latest batch highlights a change in priorities: Russian experts recognize that UAVs have become one of the main threats to valuable fire support systems.

Thus, the protection of "Solntsepeka" from reconnaissance-strike and attack drones should increase the survivability of the complex when operating at minimum distances to support assault units. One of the key advantages of the TOS-1A concept is called by "Rostec" the combination of a protected tank chassis, high density of fire and short deployment time.

At the same time, the modernization of the TOS variant based on the T-80 tank, which should receive an increased firing range, increased accuracy and a higher degree of automation, is being completed in parallel. The main characteristics of the TOS-1A It was previously reported that the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation received a new ground combat system, which Russian sources call a "mini-sunflower".