Scientists from the St. Petersburg State Technological Institute (SPbSTI) have become laureates of the closed State Prize of Russia for the development of thermobaric ammunition for the heavy flamethrower system "Solntsepyok". This was announced by the rector of the university, Andrey Shevchik, in an interview with TASS.
According to Shevchik, the composition and production technology of these ammunition remain secret, but it was within the walls of the Technological Institute that the formula for thermobaric charges was created, which ensured the effectiveness of "Solntsepyok". The scientist emphasized that the award for these developments has a closed status and has not yet been officially disclosed.
The rector noted that SPbSTI's achievements in the defense sector have a long history. The institute continues to make a significant contribution to the implementation of the tasks facing the country, including scientific research and technological projects aimed at strengthening defense capabilities.
Thermobaric ammunition, or "vacuum bombs", create a powerful explosive effect due to the volumetric combustion of an aerosol mixture. Unlike conventional explosives, they hit targets not only with a shock wave, but also with high pressure and temperature. Such ammunition is especially effective against fortified positions and equipment.
| Main characteristics of TOS-1A "Solntsepyok": | |
|---|---|
| Number of launch tubes | 24 |
| Caliber | 220 mm |
| Firing range | from 600 to 6000 m |
| Duration of a full salvo | 6 seconds |
| Time to prepare to open fire | 90 seconds |
