Russia Equips Flamethrowers With Anti-Drone Teeth

The upgraded TOS‑1A packs reinforced anti-drone defenses, improved sensors, and high‑precision targeting to boost frontline firepower and survivability.

Moscow’s latest batch of TOS-1A Solntsepyok flamethrowers has just been turned over to the Russian Army, and they come reinforced with a new layer of anti-drone defenses.

State-owned defense manufacturer Rostec said the systems were upgraded based on combat experience of Russian troops.

Mounted on a T-72 tank chassis, each flamethrower can unleash a salvo covering up to 40,000 square meters (430,556 square feet) within seconds.

Firing ranges reportedly stretch from “hundreds of meters” to “several kilometers,” offering frontline units reliable fire support.

“We don’t just supply systems; we upgrade them based on requirements and operational experience,” said Uralvagonzavod Deputy General Director for Specialized Equipment Dmitry Semizorov.

“The [concerned] engineers and designers are constantly improving the Solntsepek, enhancing its performance.”

Validated for Combat Use

Before delivery, the new batch underwent field testing under a range of environmental conditions to verify operational reliability.

An official from Rostec confirmed that the flamethrowers meet all technical and tactical requirements of the Russian Armed Forces.

While the company provided limited details on the anti-drone defenses, such capabilities likely include short-range sensors, automated targeting, and interception measures aimed at small, low-flying unmanned aerial vehicles.

“Our primary goal is to enhance the effectiveness of the [heavy flamethrower system] in the face of emerging modern threats,” Semizorov noted.

Rolling in Russian Fields

The Solntsepyok has been a frontline choice for destroying enemy facilities.

In special missions, the system took down control centers, hostile soldiers, and armored vehicles.

“Combat use is the most effective step toward continuous improvement,” Semizorov stated, underscoring the ongoing evolution of the flamethrower system.