Context:
A deadly new weapon has taken to the skies in the Russia-Ukraine war. Both sides have posted visuals of drones appearing to rain down fire — earning this weapon the moniker of “dragon drone”
Relevance:
GS II: International Relations
What are Dragon Drones?
Dragon drones utilize thermite, a compound of aluminum and iron oxide developed a century ago primarily for welding railroad tracks. These drones harness the fierce reactivity of thermite to perform destructive tasks.
How Do Dragon Drones Work?
- Ignition: Thermite is ignited, typically through an electrical fuse, initiating a self-sustaining reaction notoriously difficult to extinguish.
- Capabilities: Once activated, thermite can slice through virtually anything—from clothing to significant military equipment—and it can even continue burning underwater.
- Effects on Humans: The reaction can cause devastating injuries to humans, including severe burns and potential bone damage.
- Tactical Use: By pairing thermite with high-precision drones, these devices can effectively bypass conventional defenses, making them both highly effective and incredibly dangerous.
Recent Deployment
It is believed that dragon drones were first used in combat during the Russia-Ukraine conflict around September, marking a significant moment in modern warfare technology.
International Regulations
- Legal Status: The use of thermite in warfare is not explicitly prohibited by international law.
- Restrictions: However, international regulations, including the Convention on Certain Conventional Weapons, strictly prohibit the use of such incendiary devices against civilian targets. This guidance, established during the Cold War, continues to influence how nations conduct warfare under the auspices of the United Nations.
-Source: The Hindu
