On September 2, new video footage surfaced, capturing what appears to be a drone unleashing a stream of molten thermite onto concealed positions in Ukraine's southern front.
The footage shows the drone hovering with precision, methodically "breathing" fiery, white-hot metal.
According to the Kyiv Independent, the video has ignited a flurry of claims from both Russian and Ukrainian sources about its origins.
The Ukrainian military-focused outlet Defense Express reported that the drone was deployed by Ukraine's 108th Territorial Defense Brigade near the village of Ukrainske in Zaporizhzhia Oblast.
These claims have not yet been independently verified.
Thermite weapons are notorious for their ability to disperse molten metal that burns at temperatures exceeding 2,000 degrees Celsius, capable of melting through armored vehicles and causing catastrophic injuries.
Both sides in the conflict have reportedly used such incendiary munitions, with Russia deploying similar weapons, including banned white phosphorus bombs, early in the full-scale war.
The footage reveals the thermite stream setting fire to trees and hidden positions, with secondary explosions hinting at possible hits on ammunition or weapon caches.
Human Rights Watch has addressed the devastating impact of incendiary weapons like thermite, stating that exposure can lead to "extensive and excruciating burns" and potentially lifelong suffering.
If confirmed, this would be the first recorded instance of a Ukrainian drone deploying molten thermite in such a sustained and targeted manner.
Watch the video here.
