File image.
Russia has begun the production of an upgraded version of the TOS-1A thermobaric rocket system based on the chassis of T-80 main battle tanks.
Video footage showing the new version of the TOS-1A was posted to social networks on July 11. Previous versions of the multiple rocket launcher were based on the chassis of the T-72. A model based on the chassis of the T-90 was also reported before.
The manufacturer of the TOS-1A, Omsktransmash, is now focused on producing T-80BVM tanks. Thus, transitioning the rocket system to a gas-turbine-powered T-80 platform was a logical choice to speed up production and cut costs, while at the same time benefiting from the more powerful chassis.
Just like the previous version, the new TOS-1A can be armed with up to 24 unguided 220 mm thermobaric rockets with a range between six and ten kilometers. The system’s rockets are armed with a powerful fuel air explosives warhead.
The new version features an additional mesh armor, in addition an election warfare system meant to counter the threat of drones.
The Russian military has been using the TOS-1A to target Ukrainian fortifications, as well as gatherings of manpower and equipment since the beginning of the special operation.
An upgraded version of the system, dubbed the TOS-2, was also tested in the course of the operation. The TOS-2 is based on a 6×6 Ural-63706-0120 all-terrain vehicle. The TOS-2 is equipped with a digitalized fire-control system, a modern sight, a navigation system and an electronic protection system from precision-guided weapons. The system is also said to be armed with more powerful rockets with a range of up to 20 kilometers.
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
SouthFront: Analysis and Intelligence
NOW hosted at southfront.press
Previously, SouthFront: Analysis and Intelligence was at southfront.org.
The .org domain name had been blocked by the US (NATO) (https://southfront.press/southfront-org-blocked-by-u-s-controlled-global-internet-supervisor/) globally, outlawed and without any explanation
Back before that, from 2013 to 2015, SouthFront: Analysis and Intelligence was at southfront.com
