The Russian state-owned holding conglomerate Rostec have started preparing the TOS-2 Tosochka heavy flamethrower for state trials. The work is ongoing under the 2021 defense procurement plan. The TOS-2 heavy flamethrower has been developed by the Splav Research and Production Association. Splav is one of the leading global companies developers and manufacturers of multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS), and one of the key companies providing Russian arms for the global market in the segment. The company is part of the Techmash holding (Rostec). It is the only company in Russia which designs and develops multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS) and cartridges.
The TOS-2 Tosochka heavy flamethrower differs from the operational TOS-1 Buratino and TOS-1A Solntsepyok flamethrowers by its improved performance characteristics. The Tosochka heavy flamethrower was unveiled at the Victory Day Parade on Moscow’s Red Square in June 2020. Four combat vehicles rolled through Red Square as part of the Parade’s mechanized column. The system underwent its operational evaluation during the Kavkaz-2020 strategic command and staff drills last year. Following the results of the trials, a decision will be made on the schedule of accepting the flamethrower system for service.
Tosochka is also equipped with a more powerful TBS-M3 rocket and it has an increased range. It is also capable of firing both shells used for the Solntsepyok flamethrower and some new munitions. The system is mounted on the wheeled chassis of a Ural cross-country truck and features an increased fire range capability, automated sight, firing and fire control systems. The heavy flamethrower is also outfitted with a special crane and needs no transporter-loader vehicle. Targeting, shooting and fire control are fully automated. Besides, the TOS-2 is equipped with radioelectronic defenses against precision weapons.