Ukrainian forces have struck and destroyed rare russian TOS-1A Solntsepyok heavy thermobaric multiple launch system in Kharkiv region, underscoring the continued effectiveness of drone-led precision strikes on high-value targets.
According to Ukraine's 16th Army Corps, the system was hit by a UAV strike on April 4. Footage released alongside the statement shows the moment of impact and subsequent detonation, suggesting a successful engagement against one of the most destructive systems in russia's arsenal.
Read more: Ukrainian Operator Shoots Down 2 Shahed Drones from 500 km in World-First Strike (Video)
The strike reportedly took place near Velykyi Burluk, in the Kupiansk direction, an area that has seen intensified fighting in recent months as russian forces attempt to regain the initiative in the northeast of Ukraine. Additional references indicate the incident occurred in the vicinity of Dvorichna.
The TOS-1A Solntsepyok is a heavy flamethrower system designed to fire thermobaric rockets, capable of devastating fortified positions and infantry concentrations. Its use has been a defining feature of russian assault tactics, particularly in urban and entrenched environments, where its blast effects can be catastrophic.
Despite typically being deployed under heavy protection, including close-range air defense and electronic warfare coverage, the system was successfully targeted by operators from Ukraine's 129th Brigade. This suggests a high level of coordination and adaptability in overcoming layered defenses.
The destruction of such a system is not only tactically significant but also symbolically important. TOS-1A units are relatively scarce and expensive, and their loss reduces russia's capacity to conduct high-intensity bombardments in key sectors of the front.
Read more: Ukrainian Drones Destroy Buk-M1, Fuel Tanks, and Depots in Temporarily Occupied Luhansk (Video)
