Ukraine may be using new weapon that disables infrastructure without explosions

Ukraine may have begun using a new type of weapon against Russian forces that can paralyze energy infrastructure, according to Defense Express.

Panic among occupiers: claims of “graphite bombs”

Russian forces in temporarily occupied Donetsk Oblast are actively claiming that Ukrainian forces used drones equipped with “graphite bombs” the previous evening. As supposed evidence, they released footage showing munitions of unusual design.

Media reports suggest this type of weapon operates by causing mass short circuits.

Technology that disables energy systems without destruction

“A ‘graphite bomb’ usually refers to a cluster aerial bomb containing dozens of small submunitions filled with special graphite filaments,” the analysts say. 

The key feature of this technology is that it disables equipment without destroying surrounding buildings, making it possible to knock out energy systems without physical destruction and without civilian casualties.

Historical precedent: similar technology in late 20th century conflicts

Historically, such technologies have proven highly effective. The report references their use in conflicts of the late 20th century.

“They were actively used in Iraq in 1990–1991, where they destroyed up to 85% of the energy system," the report says. 

Versions and uncertainty: new warhead for Ukrainian FP drones?

Based on images of debris, it is suggested that Ukrainian FP-1 or FP-2 drones, developed by Fire Point, may have received a new type of warhead.

However, there is no official confirmation of such munitions being used on Ukrainian drones. Some elements seen in the footage may simply be parts of UAV structures.

Earlier, Ukrainian drones struck the Russian frigate Admiral Grigorovich in the port of Novorossiysk, as well as on the offshore drilling platform Sivash. The vessel is a carrier of Kalibr cruise missiles, which Russia regularly uses to strike Ukrainian cities.

It is the lead frigate of the Burevestnik (Project 11356R) class in the Russian Navy. It is equipped with up the Shtil-1 air defense system (up to 24 missiles).