Russia modifies drones with banned chemical irritants

The Shahed drones are Iranian designs that the Russians have been using extensively almost since the start of the ongoing war. Additionally, they have already begun domestic licensed production of similar drones called Geran-2. Previously, the Ukrainians discovered modifications to these designs, which included, for example, significantly larger warheads. Now, they report a modification that may pose a threat to people who find and examine the wrecks of the Shahed/Geran-2 drones.

The Russians have devised a way to equip their drones with capsules containing a chemical agent. This has been confirmed by the Center for Counteracting Disinformation of the National Security and Defense Council, which referred to a highly toxic, concentrated irritating chemical agent. This refers to 2-chlorobenzylidenemalononitrile (CS), a substance whose use in warfare is prohibited under the Geneva Protocol of 1925.

2-chlorobenzylidenemalononitrile (CS) is one of the components used in the production of tear gas. Contact with it can irritate the eyes and respiratory system, and at higher concentrations, it can cause skin burns and even cardiac arrest.

The Ukrainian group InformNapalm, which specializes in open-source intelligence, notes that such Russian actions are likely not yet widespread but should not be overlooked. It is a tactic intended to cause additional harm to people collecting the wrecks of downed drones.

"InformNapalm" notes that, so far, there is no concrete evidence indicating this is a widespread issue. However, the advice to avoid handling the debris of downed drones without first checking for potential chemical threats is seen as a reasonable precaution. They point out that Russia has long maintained specialised institutes focused on developing chemical weapons, and its intelligence agencies have a history of using such agents against critics of President Putin abroad.