The experience of employing units and subunits of explosive flamethrowers during the Great Patriotic War of 1941–1945

Highlights

IFlamethrower-incendiary weapons of the Red Army maintained their significance throughout the Great Patriotic War (GPW).

Combat experience confirmed the effectiveness of explosive flamethrowers (FOGs) in both defensive and offensive operations.

By 1943, key principles of their employment had been established: massed use on main axes of advance, combined arms coordination, and echeloned deployment in depth.

Relevance. The study of FOG employment during the GPW remains under-researched, despite its practical value for modern warfare. The devastating lethal and psychological effects of flamethrowers make them relevant in the context of the Special Military Operation (SMO).

The purpose of the study is to summarize the combat experience of FOG units during the GPW and trace the evolution of their tactical use.

Study base sources. Archival materials from the Central Archives of the Russian Ministry of Defence (TsAMO RF), open-source publications, and electronic resources.

Research methods. A comprehensive approach, including analysis of military-historical literature and archival records.

Results. Flamethrower units made a significant contribution to victory, particularly aſter 1943, when their employment became integral to army- and front-level operations. Tactical improvements enhanced their survivability and combat effectiveness.

Conclusion. The GPW experience confirmed the critical role of FOGs in close combat. Their study is essential for training CBRN defense specialists, and their employment principles can be adapted to the SMO.

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