Ukrainians employ incendiary tactics as trench warfare intensifies

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

In recent months, there has been increased use by Ukrainians of incendiary weapons in Russian trenches. This weapon is controversial but complies with the Convention on Certain Conventional Weapons dated 2 December 1983, as long as it is not used in populated areas where civilians may be present.

Aside from using drone-spread thermite over designated areas, napalm bomblets are also utilised, as seen in the video below, where a drop on a Russian trench is visible.

Napalm is the second most popular incendiary agent. Unlike thermite, it is much cheaper to produce and allows for more area to be burned with the same volume. Additionally, igniting napalm is easier than thermite and tends to adhere to whatever it falls on.

Napalm is created by adding a thickening agent to substances like diesel fuel or petrol. This forms a flammable gel that burns at a temperature of approximately 800-1,200 degrees Celsius. It is worth noting that additives, such as triethylaluminium, have been developed over time, which cause napalm to ignite upon contact with the air.

There are many types of napalm, and some can burn on the water's surface. In contrast, others can even burn underwater if the mixture includes an oxidiser that provides oxygen in such conditions. Depending on the mixture, napalm can burn for several seconds or even 10 minutes.

Extinguishing napalm is difficult, depending on its composition. With older versions, one might try to cut off the oxygen supply using sand or soil, but this will not work for versions containing an oxidiser. On the other hand, using water will be ineffective because the napalm will continue to burn and float on it. There's also a risk of explosion due to the high-temperature breakdown of water into oxygen and hydrogen.