Watch | Ukraine deploys 'dragon drones' against Russia, reviving World War-era weapon

Ukraine is apparently using "dragon drones" in its fight against Russian forces, with drones equipped to drop thermite, a weapon that has caused significant damage in past conflicts, including both World Wars.

According to a Telegram channel named Khorne Group, a video was shared showing a drone flying low and dropping thermite—a mixture of aluminium powder and iron oxide that burns at temperatures as high as 2,200°C (4,000°F). This molten metal can easily burn through trees, fortifications, and even metals, making it highly effective against military vehicles and armour, as reported by CNN.

The 60th Mechanised Brigade of Ukraine posted drone footage of the thermite attack, stating, "Strike Drones are our wings of vengeance, bringing fire straight from the sky! They become a real threat to the enemy, burning his positions with an accuracy that no other weapon can achieve. When our 'Vidar'works - the Russian woman will never sleep."

The Ukrainian military began using the Dragon drone, which burns the area underneath with thermite 🥰🥰🥰 Thermite is a mixture of burning granules of iron oxide and aluminum. About 500 grams of thermite mixture can be placed under a standard FPV drone. The chemical reaction is… pic.twitter.com/3XIzc3LLHN — Anastasia (@Nastushichek) September 5, 2024

These drones are regarded as one of the deadliest weapons in the world.

Thermite was initially used by the Germans during World War I when bombs were dropped from zeppelins over Britain. In World War II, both the Germans and the Allies used thermite in aerial bombs. They were alsoused to disable enemy artillery by melting the weapon shut with the molten material.

Thermite belongs to a broader category of incendiary weapons, which includes substances like napalm and white phosphorus.

According to the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs, "Incendiary weapons are weapons or munitions designed to set fire to objects or cause burn or respiratory injury to people through the action of flame, heat, or combination thereof, resulting from a chemical reaction of a flammable substance such as napalm or white phosphorus."

While thermite is not banned under international law for military use, its deployment against civilian targets is prohibited due to the severe damage it can inflict on the human body.

Human Rights Watch, in a 2022 report, highlighted the devastating effects of incendiary weapons like thermite, saying they are "notorious for their horrific human cost." The report said that these weapons can cause fourth- or fifth-degree burns, damaging muscles, tendons, nerves, and even bones.

(With inputs from agencies)

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