Ukrainian forces ramp up use of incendiary weapons in war

One of the most effective methods for clearing enemy trenches and fortifications is using a controversial incendiary weapon. Here's what the Ukrainians are employing.

In recent months, Ukrainians have increasingly employed incendiary weapons against Russian trenches. While controversial, these weapons comply with the Convention on Certain Conventional Weapons dated December 2, 1983, as long as they are not used in populated areas where civilians may be present.

In addition to deploying thermite from drones over designated areas, napalm bomblets are also utilized. The video below shows a drop on a Russian trench.

Napalm is the second most popular incendiary agent. Unlike thermite, it is much cheaper to produce and can cover a larger area with the same volume. Furthermore, igniting napalm is easier than thermite and tends to stick to whatever it contacts.

Napalm is created by adding a thickening agent to substances like diesel fuel or gasoline. This forms a flammable gel that burns at a temperature of 1,500-2,200 degrees Fahrenheit. Over time, additives such as trimethylaluminum have been developed, which cause napalm to ignite upon contact with air.

Many types of napalm exist, some of which can burn on the water's surface. In contrast, others can even burn underwater if the mixture includes an oxidizer that provides oxygen. Depending on its mixture, napalm can burn for several seconds or even up to 10 minutes.

Extinguishing napalm can be challenging, depending on its composition. You might try to cut off the oxygen supply using sand or soil for older versions, but this will not be effective for versions containing an oxidizer. Water will also be ineffective because the napalm will float and continue to burn. Due to the high temperature, there's an added risk of explosion from the breakdown of water into oxygen and hydrogen.