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Rostec Compares ‘Tornado-S’ Howitzer with American HIMARS

3 min read · 28 September 2026
Illustration for the article “Rostec Compares ‘Tornado-S’ Howitzer with American HIMARS”

Key Advantages of the Tornado-S over HIMARS

The Russian Tornado-S multiple launch rocket system boasts a range of technical features that allow it to surpass the American HIMARS system. The primary advantage lies in its larger caliber and greater rocket energy, which increase projectile flight range and warhead power.

The state corporation Rostec emphasized that the Tornado-S’s guided rockets combine high precision with the ability to deliver heavier warheads over longer distances, ensuring battlefield effectiveness.

Guidance and Air Defense Penetration

One important feature of the Tornado-S is its guided rockets’ capability to overcome layered air defense systems. This significantly raises the chances of successfully hitting targets even under intense protective measures.

Additionally, the new fire control system enables crews to strike quickly and promptly relocate, enhancing the system’s survivability and tactical flexibility on the battlefield.

Individual Flight Missions for Rockets

The Tornado-S and Sarma rocket systems are equipped with onboard automated guidance and fire control systems that allow each guided rocket to receive an individual flight mission. This greatly expands the ability to engage multiple targets or large complexes simultaneously.

This technology ensures high accuracy and efficiency in rocket system deployment, reducing ammunition consumption and increasing the tactical value of salvo fire.

Technical Specifications and Cost

The Tornado-S uses rockets with calibers larger than those in HIMARS, delivering a heavier warhead and, accordingly, greater destructive power. At the same time, the system maintains high mobility and rapid deployment speed.

The operating and production costs of the Tornado-S remain competitive compared to imported counterparts, confirming strong interest in integrating such systems into the Russian armed forces and potential partner militaries.

Prospects for Use and Development

Rostec plans to further enhance the Tornado-S system by incorporating new control technologies and munitions. This will help maintain its leading position in the multiple launch rocket system segment.

Successful deployment and development of the Tornado-S will contribute to strengthening the defense capability and operational potential of the Russian armed forces in future tactical scenarios.

Conclusion: The Russian Tornado-S system demonstrates technical and tactical advantages over the American HIMARS, as evidenced by its superior range, warhead power, and guided rocket accuracy.