The TOS-1 Buratino, described as a 'heavy flamethrower system', is a unique multiple rocket launcher that fires thermobaric and incendiary munitions. It is one of the most secretive weapons in the Russian arsenal, so much that it is operated by the NBC protection troops rather than the ground forces. The TOS-1 is based on the chassis of the T-72 tank, but replaces the turret with an armored rocket launcher pod equipped with 24-30 (depending on variant) 220-mm launchers. These are capable of firing thermobaric (also known as fuel-air explosive or 'vacuum bomb') or incendiary warheads up to a range of 3.5 km originally or up to 10 km in upgraded variants. These are particularly effective against troops in open ground as well as in difficult to dislodge positions such as dugouts, caves, and urban areas where the overpressure created within its blast radius is difficult to protect against. However, the use of these weapons is controversial given that exposure leads to significant organ damage (often permanent) as well as painful and gruesome deaths. The TOS-1 is not equipped with defensive armament although NBC protection is provided. Its first combat use is believed to have been first used in Afghanistan and later in Chechnya and Syria; more recently it has been used in Ukraine. It has also been exported to a small number of countries including Algeria, Azerbaijan, Iraq, Syria, and Saudi Arabia.

The TOS-1 (Obyekt 634), originally nicknamed Buratino, was developed sometime in the late 1980s and first used operationally in the final stages of the Afghanistan war. An improved TOS-1A Solntsepyok variant entered service in the early 2000s which featured new munitions and more advanced fire control which could extend range to 6-10 km. It is noticeable for having a rectanglar pod with 24 rather than 30 launchers in the original model. An even newer version is known as the TOS-2 and is designed around a 6 x 6 Ural truck.