Solutions to win: Ukrainian defenders utilize new domestic Sivalka-VM8 flamethrower system on frontlines

The Ukrainian military extensively uses weapons created and produced in Ukraine, specifically the Sivalka–VM8 flamethrower system. It offers significant benefits such as compact size, high accuracy, and mobility.

The General Staff of Ukraine's armed forces demonstrated the work of the Sivalka-VM8.

What is the problem?

For the past two and a half years, Ukraine has been engaged in a full-scale war with Russia. As a result, Ukrainian engineers and military personnel are consistently working on developing new weapons or upgrading existing models.

What is the solution?

The Ukrainian military actively uses weapons developed and manufactured in Ukraine, in particular, the Sivalka-VM8 flamethrower system.

The General Staff emphasized its effectiveness and versatility, as the system can be installed on any wheeled vehicle, including passenger cars.

This is why it's referred to as an "MLRS on a pick-up truck" – because of its adaptable usage.

How does it work?

Sivalka–VM8 is specifically designed to fire unguided air missiles (UAR) from the S–8 series. It can launch 12 or 16 missiles at once, ensuring a high concentration of firepower.

^{Photo: Screenshot from the video / General Staff of Ukraine's armed forces}

These missiles, particularly the S-8KO with a cumulative fragmentation warhead, can penetrate up to 400 mm of armor, making them particularly effective against armored vehicles.

One major advantage of this system is its removable missile launcher unit, which can be removed and utilized on alternate equipment if any damage occurs. Additionally, the block is fortified with steel components, enhancing its durability against debris and enemy attacks.

The Sivalka-VM8 has a firing accuracy of over 80% when targeting within a 100-meter radius, with a maximum range of 5 kilometers. Despite its compact size, this weapon boasts impressive efficiency, on par with rocket salvo fire systems.

It's intriguing that the military still hasn't decided whether to assign the Sivalka-VM8 to the MLRS or the new rocket-propelled mortar category. Despite the classification debate, experts recognize this system as an ideal engineering solution that can enhance the combat capabilities of Ukrainian defenders in the field.

For reference:

The Ministry of Defense of Ukraine codified and approved the delivery to the army of an unmanned aircraft complex called "Black Widow."