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Ukrainian Forces Deploy Drones with Thermite Ammunition Against Russian Armor
Recent developments in the Ukraine-Russia conflict have seen Ukrainian troops leveraging innovative drone technology to combat Russian armored vehicles. This strategy involves utilizing drones to deploy molten thermite on Russian tanks and other military positions.
This method not only impairs the functionality of these vehicles but also ensures that they cannot be repaired and reused in combat. A firsthand account from a Ukrainian ammunition manufacturer reveals insights into this unorthodox approach.
The Nature of the New Weapons
During a recent excursion to Kyiv, representatives from Business Insider investigated one of the companies responsible for producing these incendiary munitions. The war has spurred unprecedented drone innovations, where some can unleash fire on enemy equipment.
Recent footage captures a small Ukrainian drone as it stealthily approaches a Russian tank. Upon reaching its target, the drone releases a cloud of smoke followed by a cascade of sparks, resulting in flames that quickly consume the vehicle.
This tactic represents a calculated move by Ukrainian forces to ensure that damaged Russian tanks cannot be quickly restored for use against them. Volodymyr, a partner at a Ukrainian armaments firm known as “Burning Watermelon,” discussed the significance of their thermite ammunition. “Our tools are designed to ignite damaged vehicles permanently,” he stated through a translator.
The Composition and Functionality of Thermite
The thermite munitions produced by Burning Watermelon consist of molten thermite, which burns at temperatures exceeding 3,000 degrees Fahrenheit. This substantial heat makes the munitions effective not only against vehicles but also against fortified positions.
The ongoing conflict has led to a staggering loss of Russian armored vehicles, with estimates suggesting over 11,000 losses since February 2022, according to Britain’s defense ministry.
In combat scenarios, many Russian tanks have suffered damage from anti-tank weaponry, artillery, and mines. However, some vehicles only sustain mobility kills, leaving them temporarily out of action which may tempt Russian forces to attempt repairs. Preventing the reactivation of these tanks has become a priority for Ukraine.
Innovative Delivery Methods
The thermite munitions can be discretely attached to drones, similar to standard explosive payloads. Ukrainian pilots can choose to either disperse the incendiary material from a height or directly land on the target, activating it like a smoke grenade to initiate a fire that potentially renders the tank useless.
According to Volodymyr, the design of the thermite munitions ensures they maintain consistent ignition and high temperatures, effectively allowing them to overcome various types of fortifications and vehicles.
Originally, Burning Watermelon started with simpler munitions aimed at providing smoke cover during military exercises, and later pivoted to incendiary devices that could target enemy positions more effectively.
Interestingly, Russian defense measures typically focus on shielding against shrapnel, which inadvertently makes their vehicles susceptible to the intense heat of thermite, as the protective materials often catch fire easily.
The Production Capacity and Broader Implications
The thermite munitions weigh between 500 grams and 2.5 kilograms (approximately 1.1 to 5.5 pounds) and are produced for a cost-effective price range of €20 to €30 ($21 to $33 USD). Burning Watermelon is capable of manufacturing up to 20,000 units monthly, supplying front-line troops with these innovative resources.
“With a modest investment,” Volodymyr asserted, “a soldier gains access to a potent tool for neutralizing enemy threats.”
Moreover, the deployment of these munitions is not limited to armored vehicles; they can also target various installations, showcasing their versatility. Some footage even features drones engaging tree lines, likely aimed at exposing hidden Russian assets.
This new approach has earned the incendiary payloads a notable nickname among soldiers, with Volodymyr mentioning that they refer to it as “Dracarys,” inspired by the famous command from the “Game of Thrones” series.
As the conflict in Ukraine evolves, so do the tactical deployments of drone technology, marking an extraordinary era in modern warfare. The implementation of thermite ammunition is just one example of how Ukraine’s defense industry is adapting and innovating to respond to ongoing challenges.
For more insights into Ukraine’s drone capabilities and their strategic applications, visit Business Insider.
Source
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