Exclusive: Russian TOS-2 One of the Most Destructive Artillery Systems Reaches New Range of 15 km.

According to the latest information published by the Russian Ministry of Defense on April 17, 2025, Russia continues to enhance its artillery capabilities through the introduction of a new type of ammunition for its TOS-2 "Tosochka" heavy flamethrower system. The system is now being employed with deeply improved 220-mm TBS-3M thermobaric rockets, which have extended the system’s maximum firing range to 15 kilometers, up from the previous 12 kilometers. This marks a significant improvement in the system’s combat performance, offering increased operational depth and tactical safety for artillery crews without requiring modifications to the launcher itself.
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Russian TOS-2 Tosochka heavy flamethrower system fires a salvo of thermobaric rockets during combat operations in Ukraine. (Picture source: Russian MoD)

The extended range of the TBS-3M rockets has been achieved through technical refinements that include the use of a higher-impulse fuel charge and a slightly lighter thermobaric warhead. These enhancements allow the rocket to travel farther while retaining its destructive effectiveness. Thermobaric munitions function by dispersing a fuel-air aerosol before detonation, producing an intense explosion characterized by extreme heat and a powerful pressure wave. The upgraded TBS-3M rockets preserve the destructive characteristics of this weapon class, allowing for effective neutralization of enemy positions from safer standoff ranges.

Thermobaric weapons are known for their immense lethality in confined spaces such as bunkers, trenches, and urban environments. Upon detonation, the resulting blast consumes oxygen in the immediate area, creating a vacuum effect that can cause severe internal injuries even to those in protective cover. The heat can exceed 2,000 degrees Celsius, incinerating everything within the kill radius. Due to these effects, thermobaric munitions are often employed for area denial, bunker busting, and in combat scenarios where entrenched infantry must be neutralized swiftly and decisively.

The TOS-2 system itself remains a highly advanced platform, featuring a fully integrated automatic fire control system. It includes a thermal imaging sight, a ballistic computer, and a laser rangefinder, enabling precise target engagement within the optical horizon under a variety of environmental conditions. These onboard systems provide the crew with a modernized and responsive interface that improves battlefield effectiveness and decision-making speed.

For the first time, the Russian Ministry of Defense has released footage showcasing the interior of the TOS-2, revealing its digital command suite and ergonomically arranged operator stations. This internal modernization supports rapid response times and enhances operational efficiency during combat deployments.

One of the TOS-2’s most notable attributes is its ability to deliver devastating firepower over a broad area. Each vehicle is equipped with 18 launch tubes for 220-mm rockets, and a full salvo can saturate an area of approximately six hectares. The thermobaric warheads can neutralize all personnel and light fortifications within the blast zone, making it a formidable tool for suppression and psychological impact on the battlefield.

The TOS-2 is mounted on a Ural-63706-0120 6x6 wheeled chassis, offering improved mobility over tracked predecessors like the TOS-1A. This allows the system to maneuver more freely across various terrains and eliminates the need for external transport vehicles, thus enhancing its strategic and tactical deployment capabilities.

Notably, the TOS-2 saw its first confirmed combat use during the ongoing Russia–Ukraine conflict, where it was deployed in support of Russian ground offensives. Reports from the battlefield indicate that the system was used to target fortified Ukrainian positions and urban strongholds, demonstrating the platform’s ability to deliver rapid, large-scale destruction. This marked a significant milestone in the operational history of the TOS-2, transitioning it from a display piece at military parades and exercises to an active component of Russia’s modern artillery arsenal.

With the integration of the new TBS-3M thermobaric rockets, the TOS-2 "Tosochka" emerges as an even more lethal and versatile asset in the Russian military’s inventory. The increased range and preserved destructive power significantly bolster its role in contemporary warfare, particularly in scenarios requiring rapid, deep-strike capability, and overwhelming fire saturation against well-defended positions.