The Ukrainian Special Operations Forces (SSO) have delivered a blow to Russian military assets using First-Person View (FPV) drones. The SSO reported that during a single day, one of its units eliminated 13 Russian soldiers and destroyed six pieces of military equipment, which included tanks and a heavy flamethrower system known as “Solntsepyok.” This operation was carried out within the area of responsibility of the 8th SSO regiment during a reconnaissance mission where the unit discovered the Russian equipment and manpower.
The released video footage of the operation shows the FPV drones launching targeted strikes against the Russian forces, leading to the destruction of two tanks, a TOS-1A “Solntsepyok” system, two infantry fighting vehicles, and an armored fighting vehicle. The cost of the losses inflicted on the Russian side is estimated to be worth several million dollars.
Work of FPV drone operators from 8 SOF regiment. Result: 6 combat vehicles damaged, 13 occupiers KIA and 12 WIA. pic.twitter.com/WcmomdJEyv
— SPECIAL OPERATIONS FORCES OF UKRAINE (@SOF_UKR) March 13, 2024
The “Solntsepyok” system, a heavy flamethrower capable of firing 220mm unguided rockets weighing over 200 kg, is designed to destroy light armored vehicles, enemy personnel in open terrain, and fortified positions through powerful volume explosions. The thermobaric munition it employs creates a lethal cloud of explosive mixture, causing a sharp drop in atmospheric pressure that can lead to internal organ rupture. The system’s cost varies between $6.5 million to $15 million.
