(DONETSK OBLAST) – Ukrainian forces have destroyed a Russian Tor M2 short range surface to air missile system in a drone strike that triggered a significant ammunition explosion, according to released footage.
The attack was carried out by a Ukrainian strike drone and recorded by a second FP 1 or FP 2 attack drone approaching the same target. The second drone appeared positioned to strike if the first had failed, and captured the moment of impact and subsequent blast.
Footage shows the Tor M2 being hit, followed by a visible ammunition cook off in which at least one missile launched unintentionally after the strike. Debris from the destroyed system was seen scattered across the surrounding area.
The Tor is a Russian short range surface to air missile system that entered service in the 1980s. It is designed to intercept aircraft, helicopters, cruise missiles and drones. The M2 variant is the most modern version, featuring improved radar coverage, enhanced resistance to jamming and an engagement range of up to 16 kilometres.
When in motion, the Tor M2 is designed to halt and fire within two to three seconds, offering rapid reaction capability. Despite these specifications, Ukrainian forces have repeatedly targeted the system.
Open source monitoring indicates that around 70 Tor systems have been destroyed by Ukraine since the start of the full scale invasion. The actual figure may be higher, as not all losses are documented. Russia had approximately 129 Tor systems in service at the outset of the war, with additional units reportedly delivered since then. The remaining number in operational service is unclear.
The destruction of short range air defence systems has formed part of Ukraine’s broader effort to degrade Russian air defence networks and increase operational freedom for strike drones and other aerial assets.
Separately, the Ukrainian Volunteer Center announced a fundraising appeal for a unit operating in Donetsk Oblast. The group is seeking 4,000 US dollars, equivalent to approximately 3,150 pounds sterling at current exchange rates, to purchase two EcoFlow power stations, drone charging and communications equipment, and 100 CAT tourniquets for battlefield medical use.
The organisation said it publishes reports on expenditures and transfers funds directly to units. It described the request as urgent and thanked supporters for assistance.
