New Solntsepyok Flamethrower Systems Delivered to Russian Forces

A newly delivered batch of Solntsepyok heavy flamethrower systems has been transferred to the armed forces, with one of the vehicles bearing the inscription “For Kirillov!” in honor of Lieutenant General Igor Kirillov, the former head of the Radiation, Chemical, and Biological Defense Forces, who was recently killed in a terrorist attack. The footage was published by military correspondent Evgeny Poddubny.

Dedicated to General Kirillov

The inscription is clearly visible on the launcher in one of the frames, as the Solntsepyok systems—loaded onto railway platforms—roll out of a hangar. The Uralvagonzavod corporation stated that General Kirillov “made an invaluable contribution to the modernization of heavy flamethrower systems.” According to Dmitry Semizorov, Deputy General Director for Special Equipment, real combat use is the most effective driver of technological improvement.

“We do not simply deliver these systems— we modernize them based on operational requirements and combat experience. Our main goal is to enhance the effectiveness of TOS systems amid emerging modern threats. Engineers and designers are continuously working to improve the ‘Solntsepyok,’ raising its overall performance," Dmitry Semizorov
Deputy General Director for Special Equipment of Uralvagonzavod said.

New drone-defense features and battlefield capabilities

The new batch is equipped with an upgraded protective system against drones. These combat vehicles are built on the T-72 tank chassis. Their firing range varies from several hundred meters to several kilometers, ensuring powerful fire support for assault units. A full salvo can blanket up to 40,000 square meters.

The commander of a TOS-1A Solntsepyok flamethrower platoon previously noted that the blast wave, unlike that of the Uragan or Grad, penetrates all shelters and “burns out everything alive”—making it almost impossible to hide from the strike.

New T-80–based version unveiled

In September, Uralvagonzavod developed a new version of the TOS-1 Solntsepyok mounted on a T-80 chassis.

“Blessed memory to Igor Kirillov, who passed away. Under his leadership, the rapid development of new vehicles on an entirely new base—the T-80—was effectively launched.”

Alexander Potapov, General Director of Uralvagonzavod

The upgraded version features greater range, improved accuracy, and enhanced automation thanks to a series of technical refinements. Additional anti-drone protection has also been installed, taking into account experience gained during the special military operation. According to Potapov, the Ukrainian Armed Forces actively hunt TOS-1 units due to their battlefield effectiveness.

Earlier, Russian forces used Solntsepyok systems to create what they described as a fiery hell for Ukrainian troops in Volchansk. The massive strike also involved artillery and aviation.