Russian HIMARS analog destroyed by Ukrainian Drone Forces - video
Photo: Tornado-S (defense-ua com)
Ukrainian forces have destroyed a Russian Tornado-S multiple rocket launcher at a firing position in the temporarily occupied part of the Zaporizhzhia region, reports Robert "Madyar" Brovdi, Commander of Ukraine's Unmanned Systems Forces.
Read also: From Ryazan to Tuapse: Ukraine shows list of destroyed Russian defense and energy targets
According to the military, the destroyed Tornado-S system is a modernized version of the Smerch multiple rocket launcher, featuring improved accuracy and a range of up to 120 km. The system uses precision-guided rockets and is one of the most powerful in the Russian multiple rocket launcher lineup.
The drone forces noted that Russian occupiers use these complexes to strike Ukrainian cities, including Kharkiv, Zaporizhzhia, Sumy, Kherson, and Nikopol.
The released video shows the moment the Russian launcher was hit at its combat position.
Russian HIMARS counterpart destroyed by Ukrainian Drone Forces pic.twitter.com/LHVa0DPEe8
— RBC-Ukraine (@NewsUkraineRBC) February 21, 2026
What is known about the Tornado-S
The Tornado-S is a modernized multiple rocket launcher considered one of the most powerful in the Russian army. It can fire precision-guided munitions and strike targets at distances of up to 120 km.
Previously, it was reported that, if used properly, this system could perform the role of an operational-tactical missile complex, capable of hitting targets deep in enemy territory. For this reason, it is sometimes referred to as a potential "Russian HIMARS."
The Tornado-S can fire guided rockets 9M542, 9M544, and 9M549. In addition, the system can use reconnaissance munitions 9M534, which launch a T-90 drone during flight to survey the area and transmit data back to the command post.
Destruction of enemy equipment
Ukrainian drone forces operators from the Asgard battalion of the 412th Nemesis Brigade destroyed two Russian Tor-M2 surface-to-air missile systems in a single night.
Earlier, these same units eliminated six more air defense and radar systems within 48 hours, which were key elements of the enemy’s layered air defense.
Recently, Ukrainian drone forces also destroyed a rare Russian electronic warfare system, the KOP-2, using only two drones. In addition, they struck a R-330Zh Zhitel electronic warfare station, estimated to be worth around $10 million.
