Russia reveals impressive features of the Tornado-S "fire tornado".

Russia's Tornado-S multiple rocket launcher system (Photo: Eurasian Times).

Bekhan Ozdoyev, Director of Industrial Affairs for Conventional Weapons, Ammunition, and Special Chemicals at the Russian state-owned technology corporation Rostec, revealed that, thanks to its upgraded range, the Tornado-S artillery system can be used to destroy targets where the deployment of Iskander missiles is "redundant".

He emphasized that the Tornado-S multiple rocket launcher system can target both large areas and individual targets using high-precision munitions.

He stated, "We will continue to develop these systems," adding that the Tornado-S is now quite similar to a tactical missile system thanks to its improved range of 90 to 120 km.

"These weapons can be used to destroy targets where the use of Iskander missiles would be unnecessary. The Tornado-S has very high accuracy and the destructive power of its warhead is sufficient to strike almost anywhere, including heavily fortified facilities," Ozdoyev said.

The statement comes amid reports that Russia is using a tactic of firing multiple Iskander missiles at the same Ukrainian targets in a special military operation.

The goal of this tactic is to inflict more damage on the enemy, creating a surprise that Kyiv cannot anticipate—that Russia will fire another missile after the initial volley. It also suggests that Russia has seemingly accelerated the production of Iskander tactical missiles despite Western sanctions.

If the Tornado-S can replace the Iskander in some missions, Russia will be able to use tactical missiles more selectively for high-value targets.

The Tornado-S "fire tornado" is considered a close rival to the HIMARS system that the US supplied to Ukraine.

The Tornado-S has a greater attack range than HIMARS (120km compared to 80km) and also has the ability to guide each launched rocket. Similar to HIMARS, the Tornado-S is used to attack targets located in enemy-controlled areas and for long-range firepower.

The HIMARS "Fire God" can fire six 227mm GPS-guided rockets at a maximum range of 80km and an accuracy of 5-10m. Meanwhile, the Tornado-S can launch twelve 300mm GLONASS-guided rockets at a maximum range of 120km with comparable accuracy.

The Tornado-S utilizes a completely new fire control and guidance system (ASUNO) with several major improvements. It has enhanced target designation, data exchange capabilities, and faster and more accurate estimation of aiming angles and other attributes.

Last year, Russian defense sources said the country was increasing production of the Tornado-S system to meet military needs.

In addition, Ozdoyev said that Russia is planning to upgrade multiple rocket launcher systems (MLRS) such as Tornado-S and Smerch by transforming them into combat robot versions.

"In the future, Smerch and Tornado-S could be developed into next-generation MLRS, including robotic versions, based on experience gained from the conflict in Ukraine," he said.

Source: https://dantri.com.vn/the-gioi/nga-tiet-lo-tinh-nang-an-tuong-cua-con-loc-lua-tornado-s-20231123150810375.htm