What are ‘dragon drones’, the latest weapon being used in Russia-Ukraine war?

Sub :Sci

Sec: Defence

Context:

A new weapon, nicknamed “dragon drone,” has emerged in the Russia-Ukraine war. Both sides have shared videos showing drones seemingly raining down fire.

What are Dragon Drones?

Dragon drones release thermite—a mixture of aluminium and iron oxide, initially developed to weld railroad tracks.
Thermite burns at an extreme temperature of 2,427°C.
Once ignited by an electrical fuse, it triggers a self-sustaining reaction that’s tough to stop. It can burn through almost anything, including clothes, trees, and military vehicles. It can even burn underwater.
On contact with humans, it can cause severe burns, even damaging bones.
The combination of thermite with drones allows for precise attacks that bypass traditional defences, making them highly effective and dangerous.

Usage in the Russia-Ukraine War

First used around September by Ukrainian forces to set fire to vegetation used by Russian troops as cover.
Russia soon began deploying similar drones.

Has Thermite Been Used Before in War?

World War I: German zeppelins dropped thermite-laden bombs.
World War II: Both Allied and Axis forces used thermite in aerial bombing campaigns, with millions of thermite bombs dropped on Germany and Japan.
Thermite Hand Grenades: Used during WWII to disable artillery pieces without causing an explosion.
Modern Use: Thermite is often used by espionage agents and special operations teams due to its intense burn and lack of explosion.

Is Thermite Legal in Warfare?

Not Banned: The use of thermite in war is not prohibited under international law.
Restrictions: The Convention on Certain Conventional Weapons limits the use of incendiary weapons like thermite against civilians.
- Indiscriminate Nature: Thermite’s potential to cause severe burns and respiratory injuries means its use is restricted to military targets under Protocol III of the Convention.

Source: IE