Heavy flamethrower systems "Pinocchio" and "Solntsepek" have been used by our army for several decades. The successor of these legendary machines should be the Tosochka flamethrower system. Although it is currently at the stage of field tests, it has already managed to prove itself in all its glory at the strategic exercises "Caucasus-2020".
In terms of power and efficiency, they are compared with the use of a nuclear charge. At the same time, they act on the basis of explosives belonging to the so-called high-explosive group. The principle of operation of the projectile is based on a volumetric explosion.
In real combat practice, the TOS-1 "Pinocchio" was first used during the Afghan War. Upon contact with the target, the contents of the projectile flew through the air, creating an explosive mixture that was detonated. One salvo destroyed everything in an area of three square kilometers. In Syria, heavy flamethrower systems have also demonstrated their potential. The militants, who saw the consequences of using these systems, called our flamethrowers weapons from hell.
TOS-1 "Pinocchio" and TOS-1A "Solntsepek" have proven their effectiveness. At the same time, they can be used only in local conflicts or counter-terrorist operations. In large-scale combat operations, the complexes are inferior in range and efficiency to multiple launch rocket systems. This partly explains the relatively small number of CBT in the troops.
Now there is an update of the TOS-1A "Solntsepek". The enterprises carry out work on the modernization of these combat vehicles, which are produced on the basis of the T-72 tank. Their protection against anti-tank weapons will be increased, the range and accuracy of shooting will be increased, the area of target damage with one ammunition will be increased. Due to the use of new unguided rockets and modern sighting and navigation systems, the ammunition consumption rate will be reduced. It is possible that later the " Sun "will replace the platform of the T-72 tank with the latest "Armata".
The Tosochka differs from its counterparts in that it is based on a three-axle Ural-63706 chassis with all-wheel drive and an armored cabin. The decision to put the flamethrower on wheels was made after the use of" Sunbeams " in the Syrian desert. The wheeled chassis allows you to increase the mobility and speed of delivery of the gun. In addition, the wheeled version has wider prospects for export. The development of ammunition for the system also continues. It is planned to increase their range and introduce correctable ammunition, which can be guided according to the laser rangefinder-target designator.
Alexander Stepanov
