Ukraine Introduces Its First Thermobaric Rocket System: A Compact Alternative to Russia’s TOS-1

Ukraine has unveiled its first domestically developed thermobaric rocket system, designed as a more compact counterpart to Russia’s TOS-1 “Solntsepyok” and TOS-1A “Buratino.” Built on the foundation of the existing multiple launch rocket system (MLRS) “Sivalka,” this new development is already in operation on the battlefield.

According to Ukrainian Armed Forces Lieutenant Colonel Serhii Misiura, who presented the system, the “Sivalka VM-8” represents Ukraine’s first weapon of this type. The system, which has been described as a hybrid between a small MLRS and a reactive mortar, is mounted on a wheeled chassis, such as a HMMWV or pickup truck.

Recent footage released by the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine shows the system in action, targeting enemy positions in the Pokrovsk sector with thermobaric munitions. The deployment of such weapons is aimed at neutralizing fortified positions and personnel in open terrain.

Key Specifications of the “Sivalka VM-8” MLRS:

• Ammunition: 12 or 16 unguided S-8KO rockets

• Caliber: 80mm

• Warhead: Shaped-charge fragmentation, capable of penetrating 400mm of armor

• Accuracy: 80% within a 100-meter diameter

• Range: Up to 5 km

Thermobaric munitions operate by dispersing an explosive cloud, which is then ignited to create a high-temperature blast. This results in a rapid increase in atmospheric pressure, followed by an extreme drop—up to 160 mmHg—causing severe damage to personnel and structures. Such effects make thermobaric weapons particularly effective against enemy fortifications and armored units.

Earlier, Ukrainian forces successfully destroyed a rare Russian TOS-1A “Solntsepyok” heavy flamethrower system using drone strikes. The operation, conducted by the 412th Separate Unmanned Systems Regiment with support from the 102nd and 108th Territorial Defense Brigades, targeted the system due to its destructive thermobaric capabilities.