Ukraine's controversial use of incendiary weapons in trenches
One of the most effective methods for clearing enemy trenches and fortifications is the controversial incendiary weapon. Here's what the Ukrainians are using.
In recent months, Ukrainians have increasingly used incendiary weapons in Russian trenches. While controversial, this weapon complies with the Convention on Certain Conventional Weapons dated December 2, 1983, as long as it is not used in populated areas where civilians may be present.
Apart from using drone-spread thermite over designated areas, napalm bomblets are also utilized, as seen in the video below, where a drop on a Russian trench is visible.
Napalm — thickened gasoline or diesel as a dangerous weapon
Napalm is the second most popular incendiary agent. Unlike thermite, it is much cheaper to produce and can burn a larger area with the same volume. Igniting napalm is also easier than thermite and adheres to whatever it falls on.
Napalm is created by adding a thickening agent to substances like diesel fuel or gasoline. This forms a flammable gel that burns at temperatures of 800-1,200 degrees Celsius. It's worth noting that additives, such as trimethylaluminum, have been developed over time to make napalm ignite upon contact with the air.
There are many types of napalm; some can burn on the water's surface, while others can burn underwater if the mixture includes an oxidizer that provides oxygen. Depending on the mixture, napalm can burn for several seconds or even 10 minutes.
Extinguishing napalm is difficult, depending on its composition. One might try to cut off the oxygen supply using sand or soil with older versions, but this will not work for versions containing an oxidizer. Using water will also be ineffective because the napalm will continue to burn and float on it. Because of the high temperature, there's also a risk of explosion due to the breakdown of water into oxygen and hydrogen.
