In the ongoing war between Ukraine and Russia, innovation is key to survival. Recently, Ukraine has introduced a modern weapon that has caught global attention: fire-spewing “dragon drones.” These advanced drones are capable of unleashing molten metal on Russian forces, offering a new dimension of warfare.
The Rise of “Dragon Drones”
A series of videos posted on social media, including by Ukraine’s Defense Ministry, shows these drones dropping torrents of fire onto Russian positions. The drones release thermite—a chemical mixture of aluminum powder and iron oxide—which burns at temperatures as high as 4,000°F (2,200°C). This creates a scene eerily reminiscent of fire-breathing dragons, earning the drones their nickname.
Ukraine’s 60th Mechanized Brigade proudly shared, “Strike drones are our wings of vengeance, bringing fire straight from the sky,” highlighting their powerful psychological impact on the battlefield.
What is Thermite and Why is it So Deadly?
Thermite, discovered by a German chemist in the 1890s, was originally used for welding railroad tracks. However, its military potential became apparent during the World Wars when it was used by both Germany and the Allies in bombs and to disable enemy artillery.
Thermite burns through almost anything, including metal, which makes it particularly effective in destroying fortified positions or equipment. When dropped from drones, this white-hot substance can devastate Russian defensive positions, and it has been used to disable tanks and other machinery by burning through their vulnerable points.
Psychological Impact: Fear as a Weapon
While the physical damage from thermite is brutal, defense expert Nicholas Drummond believes the psychological effect on Russian troops might be even more impactful.
“It’s very nasty stuff,” Drummond explains, “but used in this way, its effect is more psychological than physical.” The sheer terror of these drones swooping down from the sky, dropping molten fire, is enough to cause chaos and fear in enemy ranks.
Ukraine’s use of this weapon may be limited, but its potential to demoralize Russian forces is immense. As Drummond noted, “We’ve seen instances where Russian forces attacked by multiple drones have deserted their positions. The more Ukraine can instill a fear of drones, the better their chances of success.”
Thermite’s Devastating Legacy in Warfare
Thermite has a long and destructive history in warfare. During World War I, German forces used it in bombs dropped from zeppelins over Britain. In World War II, it was used by both sides to disable artillery and destroy enemy infrastructure.
Thermite isn’t the only incendiary weapon in use today. Others, such as napalm and white phosphorus, are equally destructive, and like thermite, they cause widespread destruction and environmental damage. The United Nations classifies incendiary weapons as “area weapons” due to their broad impact on large areas, making them extremely difficult to control.
Ukraine’s Innovation in Drone Warfare
Ukraine’s use of thermite-equipped drones is part of a broader strategy to outsmart and outmaneuver Russian forces. Despite being outnumbered and outgunned, Ukraine has proven highly innovative in its use of small drones to strike Russian troops and equipment.
These thermite drones are particularly effective in bypassing traditional defenses, allowing Ukraine to target enemy positions with deadly precision. In some cases, Ukraine has used thermite to disable Russian tanks, dropping the molten substance directly into hatches, destroying everything inside.
Russia’s Use of Incendiary Weapons
Ukraine isn’t the only side accused of using incendiary weapons. Since the invasion in February 2022, Ukrainian officials have repeatedly accused Russia of deploying similar munitions against civilian targets. Reports of Russian forces using incendiaries near Kharkiv and Bakhmut have drawn international condemnation.
While these weapons have not brought quick victories for either side, their use continues to create fear and suffering on the battlefield.
The Role of Dragon Drones in Ukraine’s Strategy
Although thermite drones may not be the ultimate game changer, they add another layer of pressure on Russian forces. As Ukraine continues to innovate with drone warfare, it is clear that these “dragon drones” play a crucial role in their strategy to disrupt, demoralize, and defeat the Russian invaders.
Drummond sums it up: “The more Ukraine can instill fear with its drones, the better their chances of success.” As the war drags on, Ukraine’s fiery dragon drones will keep breathing flames onto the battlefield.