Chemical analysis confirms that russia uses chess pieces with thermobaric warheads - Kyiv Scientific Research Institute of Forensic Expertise

A chemical analysis conducted by experts from the Kyiv Scientific Research Institute of Forensic Expertise confirmed cases of russian use of shaheds with a thermobaric warhead. This was reported to UNN by Kyiv Scientific Research Institute of Forensic Expertise.

"The experts of Kyiv Scientific Research Institute of Forensic Expertise examined the residues from the wreckage of the drones using a special electron microscope to detect traces of thermobaric explosives. In addition, samples of substances from the wreckage of the UAV  were analyzed by liquid chromatography to detect organic explosives. The results of the research revealed the presence of chemical elements (metals) that are components of thermobaric munitions," the scientists said.

                    Video courtesy of Kyiv Scientific Research Institute of Forensic Expertise

The experts of Kyiv Scientific Research Institute of Forensic Expertise noted that they had found evidence of the installation of thermobaric warheads in unmanned aerial vehicles marked "Geranium 2" (Shahed 136), which russia uses against Ukraine. According to them, the respective munition is not new, but the cases of research on the use of thermobaric warheads are currently rare.

Experts said that since the beginning of the use of attack drones, experts have identified three modifications: marked "M" - Iranian-made, marked "Y" - Iranian-russian-made (Iranian machine sets are supplied, assembled and completed by russians), and marked "K" - russian-made. The drones are equipped with at least four different types of warheads, each with individual markings, design features, methods of use, and consequences of damage.

The use of thermobaric warheads was confirmed by inspections of the scene, identification of parts and fragments of weapons, and analysis of explosive residues. There were no typical signs of damage at the explosion sites indicating the use of high-explosive munitions. Instead, signs of the use of thermobaric munitions were found: damage to building structures from high temperature and pressure, the absence of characteristic shrapnel and fragments of warheads

Kyiv Scientific Research Institute of Forensic Expertise reminded that thermobaric weapons were also used during the russian terrorist attack in the colony in Olenivka on the night of July 29, 2022, where Ukrainian prisoners of war were held. The experts added that studying and detailing the facts of the use of such weapons will allow for a deeper understanding of the nature and features of its use, and the development of methods for its research.

Recall

Earlier, Kyiv Scientific Research Institute of Forensic Expertise reported that during the attacks on the territory of Ukraine on October 26-29, the russians used attack drones with a thermobaric warhead.