Russian forces on the Orekhov direction are using heavy 2S4 Tyulpan self-propelled mortars to destroy deeply fortified AFU positions. According to Zvezda TV, their powerful 240-mm munitions can demolish such defenses with a single hit.

Crews from the Vostok group of forces are primarily targeting so-called concrete strongpoints — heavily built defensive structures that Ukrainian formations had spent several years constructing. To engage the deepest positions, Tyulpan crews have to move the heavy systems closer to enemy lines.

With rocket-assisted munitions, the Tyulpan can fire at ranges of up to 19 kilometers. Its main advantage in these missions, however, is not its reach but the destructive power and penetration capability of its 240-mm rounds against hardened fortifications.

Drone teams help the mortar crews adjust their fire. Guided Smelchak munitions are used against targets that require a precise first-round hit. A mechanic-driver with the call sign Lyubov said these include command posts and UAV control points. He described the Smelchak as a high-precision counterpart to the Krasnopol.

High Ukrainian drone activity makes every deployment of a Tyulpan to a firing position a carefully planned operation. Different crews work in coordination: heavy artillery destroys complex defensive structures, while kamikaze drone operators strike reserves and disrupt AFU attempts to bring ammunition forward.

The same combination supports assault units. While Tyulpan crews use heavy-caliber fire against fortified positions, other assets prevent Ukrainian forces from restoring supplies and moving reinforcements into the area.