Russian soldiers have been utilizing the dense tree lines in Ukraine as cover to prepare for assaults on Ukrainian trenches. In response, Captain Viacheslav, commander of the 68th Separate Jaeger Brigade’s strike drone company, reported that significant resources were deployed to counter this threat, but with limited success. To enhance their capabilities, Ukrainian forces have innovatively attached thermite canisters to drones, creating what are referred to as “dragon drones.” These drones can emit molten metal at temperatures reaching 4,400 degrees Fahrenheit, effectively igniting vegetation used by Russian troops for cover and exposing them to direct attacks. The use of thermite, a substance known for its incendiary properties, has historical precedence in warfare, particularly during the world wars. In Ukraine, it has primarily been employed in artillery shells and grenades. The newly adapted dragon drones have been used to target Russian defensive positions, with Ukrainian soldiers sharing videos of these attacks on social media to instill fear among their adversaries. In response, Russian forces have begun developing their own versions of dragon drones, as highlighted by Moscow politician Andrey Medvedev, who shared footage of their use against Ukrainian soldiers. While the use of thermite is not prohibited under international law, its deployment in civilian areas is restricted by the Convention on Certain Conventional Weapons. However, there has been no significant condemnation of the dragon drones, which have reportedly been used exclusively against military targets. The dragon drones are part of a broader arms race between Ukraine and Russia, both of which are rapidly expanding their drone fleets in an effort to innovate and increase production capabilities. President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine announced plans to produce 1.5 million drones this year, with aspirations to reach four million annually, while also establishing the Unmanned Systems Force, the first military branch dedicated to drone warfare. In contrast, Russia has significantly boosted its military spending, proposing a budget increase of 25 percent to over $145 billion, which has enabled accelerated drone production. Russian President Vladimir Putin indicated that drone production has surged from 140,000 units last year to a projected 1.4 million in 2024. Analysts note that while Russia was initially slow to adapt, they are now investing heavily in research and development, allowing for rapid innovation. Additionally, Iran's support in supplying drones to Russia has further enhanced their capabilities. Both nations are producing a diverse array of drones, including surveillance, maritime, and long-range attack drones. The battlefield is increasingly populated with inexpensive, expendable attack drones, which can be remotely piloted and are capable of striking targets from significant distances. Captain Viacheslav detailed various types of drones used by his unit, noting their effectiveness in combat, claiming that his unit has accounted for over 3,000 Russian soldier casualties since its deployment in April, although these figures cannot be independently verified. Despite the mass production of drones, Captain Viacheslav emphasized the critical role of skilled pilots, who are becoming increasingly valuable and difficult to replace. He highlighted the importance of protecting these pilots, as their positions are frequently targeted by the enemy.