In a recent conversation with “Lenta.ru,” retired Colonel Yuri Knutov, a military expert and director of the Air Defense Forces Museum, highlighted the use of Russian heavy flame-thrower systems, known as “Sunbeam” and “Tosochka,” by the Russian Armed Forces in the zone of special military operations (SMO).
Knutov explained that the “Sunbeam” system is based on the T-90 tank and utilizes thermobaric ammunition. However, the system’s range is relatively limited, reaching only about 5-7 kilometers.
Due to its short firing range, the “Sunbeam” system must approach the frontline closely, making it vulnerable. To mitigate this risk, the system needs to advance under the protection of tanks and other vehicles. Nevertheless, this reveals the system’s position to the enemy, making it a target for retaliation, added the expert.
Hence, “Sunbeam” systems typically operate alone, stealthily advancing to their positions, delivering strikes, and quickly retreating, according to Knutov.
Furthermore, Knutov revealed that the “Sunbeam” system is considered so powerful that the United States has raised concerns about banning it and categorizing it as a weapon of mass destruction. In contrast, the United States has been unable to develop anything comparable, thus prompting such discussions, he added.
Previously, a captured serviceman from the 56th Brigade of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, Vitaliy Melnichenko, stated that the “Sunbeam” systems are the most terrifying weapons used in the SMO.
In addition to the “Sunbeam” systems, military expert and reserve Captain of the First Rank Vasily Dandykin identified kamikaze drones, the “Zemledelie” remote mining system, and the T-90M “Proryv” tank as some of the most effective types of weaponry used in the special operations zone.
Earlier, opinions were expressed in the United States suggesting that the Russian TOS-1A “Sunbeam” system would continue to be employed in conflicts for a considerable period.
