Russian infantry units on the front lines are using the Shmel-M flamethrower. This is an amazing and terrible weapon, since in terms of firepower it is comparable to 152-millimeter howitzer artillery. Only, unlike a howitzer, the flamethrower weighs only 11 kg and fits freely behind the back of an infantryman.
The «Shmel» was adopted in 1988. Soon received baptism of fire in the Afghan war. Here the flamethrower showed itself as a very formidable weapon and received the nickname «Shaitan-pipe».
The RPO includes an engine, a launch container and a thermobaric munition with an aerosol flammable mixture. The principle of its operation is the same as that of the TOS-1A «Solntsepek» shells, only on a smaller scale. Aimed firing range — 600 meters. With an optical sight — up to 850 meters.
The «Shmel» is suitable for destroying fortified buildings, above-ground or semi-buried structures made of brick, stone or concrete, disabling lightly armored and automotive equipment, as well as manpower both in structures and in open areas.
Characteristics of RPO «Shmel-M»:
- Caliber — 90 mm
- Length — 940 mm
- Firing range — maximum 1700, aimed 800
- Initial speed — 180 m/s
- Weight — no more than 8.8 kg
- Weight of BC mixture — 3 kg
- TNT equivalent of BC — 5-6 kg
- Ammunition carried by one soldier — 1 pack (2 flamethrowers)
- Weight of the pack — no more than 19 kg
Earlier www1.ru reported that the Russian army reduced losses of Supercam reconnaissance drones to almost zero. UAV operators know in advance where the enemy's air defense and electronic warfare points are located.
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