Russia is reportedly deploying the TOS-1 Buratino multiple launch rocket system (MLRS) to Syria as part of its expanded presence in that country. It is unclear how many of the weapons have been sent to Syria, reports suggest a substantial number have been deployed. Indeed, there are videos of the Buratino purportedly in action in Syria’s Latakia province.
But while Russia has deployed other ground vehicles and artillery pieces to the war-torn country, the use of the Buratino in Syria is likely to draw a strong reaction from many quarters. Based on the chassis of the T-72 tank, the TOS-1 is no ordinary self-propelled artillery piece—it is primarily designed to launch massive thermobaric charges against infantry in confined spaces such as urban areas or mountainous regions. While there is no question of the effectiveness and devastating power of thermobaric or fuel-air explosives, such weapons are inherently imprecise and cause massive collateral damage if used in built up areas.