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Dragon Drones

What are Dragon Drones ?

  • It is a new weapon in the Russia-Ukraine war.
  • These drones drop a highly dangerous substance that appears to rain fire from the skies.
  • These drones release thermite which burns at 2,427 degrees Celsius.
  • The moniker “dragon drone” comes from the fiery destruction they cause, resembling the breath of a dragon.

About Thermite

  • Thermite is a mixture of aluminium and iron oxide that, when ignited, triggers a self-sustaining reaction that burns intensely.
  • Thermite properties:
    • Self-Sustaining Reaction: Once ignited, thermite undergoes an exothermic reaction (releasing heat), which continues without the need for external fuel or oxygen. This makes it hard to extinguish.
    • Intense Heat but Non-Explosive: Unlike explosives, thermite doesn’t detonate but rather burns very intensely, creating molten iron.
    • Versatility: It can burn through various materials, including metal, concrete, and even under water.
    • High Temperature: When ignited, thermite produces extremely high temperatures, reaching up to 2,427°C (4,400°F). This heat is enough to melt metals like steel.
    • Difficult to Extinguish: Because thermite doesn’t rely on atmospheric oxygen, traditional fire extinguishers or water won’t stop its burn. It requires special methods, like sand or Class D fire extinguishers.
Legality of Using Thermite in War
  • The use of thermite in weapons is not banned under international law.
  • However, the use of incendiary weapons like thermite against civilian targets is prohibited under Protocol III of the Convention on Certain Conventional Weapons.
  • It was also used during World War II by both the Allies and Axis powers.

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I, Sakshi Gupta, am a content writer to empower students aiming for UPSC, PSC, and other competitive exams. My objective is to provide clear, concise, and informative content that caters to your exam preparation needs. I strive to make my content not only informative but also engaging, keeping you motivated throughout your journey!

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