A new Ukrainian weapon, the "Dragon Drone," made headlines in early September with its unique attack capabilities.
A Stream of Molten Metal
Contrary to initial reports suggesting these drones were flamethrowers, it has been revealed that they are equipped with thermite charges. This incendiary material generates a stream of molten metal that can cause significant damage, according to WP.
Thermite, a mixture of powdered aluminum and metal oxides, typically iron oxide, burns at extremely high temperatures between 3,000 to 3,800 degrees Celsius (5,432°F).
Due to its intense heat, thermite cannot be extinguished with water; attempting to do so can lead to further explosions and thermal decomposition of the water. Instead, the only way to handle a thermite fire is to let it burn out completely.
Burn Through Metal
The Ukrainian military has adapted thermite for use in drones, creating a dramatic effect. Videos of these "Dragon Drones" show them emitting a spectacular column of fire and sparks, igniting everything in their path.
The drones drop thermite charges that burn through metal and other materials, making them highly effective in disrupting enemy equipment and fortifications.
Thermite's military applications are not new. It has been used in various forms for decades, including in 122-mm incendiary rockets like the 9M22S, fired from BM-21 Grad multiple rocket launchers.
These rockets contain small thermite charges that ignite and burn for about two minutes, with a total thermite mass of nearly six kilograms. The use of thermite has been documented in attacks such as the assault on the Azovstal plant in Mariupol.
