Fighters of the Bulava Unmanned Systems Battalion of Ukraine's 72nd Brigade have reportedly struck russian TOS-1A Solntsepyok heavy flamethrower system on russian territory for the first time since the start of the full-scale war. The strike took place in russia's Belgorod region, marking a significant escalation in Ukraine's use of unmanned systems against high-value targets beyond its borders.
Footage of the operation was released by the brigade on February 2, documenting the engagement and its aftermath. According to the unit, Ukrainian aerial reconnaissance detected the system during nighttime operations, enabling a precision strike using first-person-view drones.
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Two attack drones were subsequently dispatched and successfully hit the TOS-1A system. Follow-up reconnaissance conducted during daylight hours confirmed damage to the system, which is estimated to be worth more than $10 million.
The TOS-1A Solntsepyok is one of russia's most powerful and controversial battlefield systems. Mounted on a tank chassis, it fires thermobaric rockets designed to destroy fortified positions and personnel over a wide area, making it particularly dangerous in both urban and defensive combat environments.
Because of its destructive capability and psychological impact, the system has been used by russian forces as a tool to break fortified lines and suppress resistance. As a result, it has long been considered a high-priority target for Ukrainian forces whenever detected within range.
As Defense Express previously reported, Ukrainian drone operators from the 1st Battalion of the 59th Brigade have struck russian TOS-1A Solntsepyok heavy flamethrower system. Footage of the operation was published by the battalion on January 29, showcasing another successful engagement against a high-value russian asset.
Read more: Ukrainian FPV Drones Disable $15M russian TOS-1A Solntsepyok System (Video)
