Ukraine Deploys 'Dragon' Drones: A Fiery New Tactic in the Ongoing Conflict

Ukraine is using 'Dragon' drones to drop thermite, a highly combustible substance, on Russian positions in Kharkiv. These drones, named for their fire-like appearance, utilize a precise and devastating weapon that burns at extreme temperatures. The tactic raises concerns about the humanitarian impact of incendiary weapons in modern warfare.

Recent footage circulating on social media has revealed a startling new development in the Ukraine-Russia conflict: the use of so-called 'Dragon' drones by Ukrainian forces. These unmanned aerial vehicles, deployed in the Russia-held Kharkiv region, have captured attention due to their ability to rain down molten metal on enemy positions.

The 'Dragon' drones utilize thermite, a mixture of aluminum powder and iron oxide that burns at temperatures reaching 2200 degrees Celsius (4000 degrees Fahrenheit). This intense heat gives the falling substance the appearance of dragon fire, lending the drones their dramatic moniker.

Thermite's devastating effects stem from its ability to burn through nearly any material, including metals. Originally developed for welding railway tracks in the 1890s, thermite has a long history in warfare, seeing use in World War II and by the U.S. military until 2014, with production resuming in 2023.

The UK-based anti-war group Action on Armed Violence (AOAV) notes that these drones can deliver thermite directly through hatches, igniting everything inside targeted vehicles or structures. This precision, combined with the drones' ability to bypass traditional defenses, makes them a formidable weapon in modern conflict scenarios.

However, the use of such incendiary weapons raises serious humanitarian concerns. The United Nations Office for Disarmament warns of their potential for massive destruction and environmental damage, while Human Rights Watch highlights the severe injuries they can inflict, including fourth or fifth-degree burns.

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As this new tactic unfolds on the battlefield, it underscores the evolving nature of warfare and the ongoing arms race between opposing forces. The international community now faces the challenge of addressing the use of such weapons within the framework of existing laws and conventions governing armed conflict.