Ukrainian Flamethrower Drone Torches Russian Trenches In Fiery Footage

The prolonged war between Russia and Ukraine has led to the emergence of novel military tactics, such as the deployment of drones equipped with flamethrowers for intense attacks. A video that has been making the rounds on social media shows Ukrainian soldiers using an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) with a flamethrower against Russian trenches, providing an early look at this new military technology. The 108th Separate Territorial Defense Brigade of Ukraine first shared the video on Telegram. It shows the drone shooting jets of fire along a treeline, however it’s unclear if Russian forces are in the area.

The one-minute video showcases the full extent of the attack, which lasts for approximately 22 seconds. Toward the 25-second mark, a small explosion occurs within the treeline, which some observers speculate may have been caused by the drone’s incendiary weapon, possibly now depleted. After the fiery assault, the UAV flies off, leaving behind significant damage to the landscape. The footage was shared on a channel called “My Callsign is Godwin” with the caption “Drakaris,” a reference to dragonfire in Game of Thrones.

Close observation of the footage suggests the drone’s flamethrower does not use traditional ignited liquid but instead relies on a spray of sparks, likely from thermite—a highly incendiary mixture of iron oxide and aluminum powder. When ignited, thermite burns at temperatures around 4,000°F (2,400°C), capable of melting steel and igniting flammable materials. This weapon has grown popular among Ukrainian drone operators for disabling Russian vehicles and equipment.

While the drone attack may not pose an immediate threat to soldiers sheltered in bunkers, it effectively ignites dry vegetation and ammunition, potentially forcing Russian troops to temporarily abandon their positions. Though the make and model of the drone remain unclear, it is believed to be an FPV (first-person view) model, possibly akin to larger UAVs like the Queen Hornet.

Despite its impressive capabilities, this thermite-laden drone is unlikely to be decisive in battle but serves as a potent tool for demoralizing enemy forces and stripping away protective cover.