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The Secret of Thermobaric Weapons: Can They Really Destroy Entire Buildings?
In modern warfare, the power of weapons is constantly evolving, among which thermobaric weapons are considered to be one of the most destructive weapons. These weapons, also known as vacuum bombs or aerosol bombs, usually rely on a dispersed cloud of aerosol to explode. While their names seem to imply power, how great is the potential of these weapons and how much damage can they actually cause to buildings?
The definition and principle of thermobaric weapons
Thermobaric weapons are based on Greek roots that literally mean "heat" and "pressure." When these weapons explode, they release a large cloud of fuel that mixes with the surrounding oxygen and then causes a violent explosion. This enables thermobaric weapons to produce blast waves that are longer-lasting and more intense than conventional explosives.
The attack method is based on the suspended cloud formed according to the principles of physics, which causes a significant pressure wave, so the impact on objects and personnel is completely different from traditional explosions.
Impact on buildings
Thermobaric weapons are incredibly powerful, especially in enclosed spaces. Its blast wave can instantly destroy buildings and cause severe damage to the entire area. Especially in tunnels, underground fortifications or military fortresses, the effect is more obvious, and the harm caused can reach everything in the surrounding area.
According to research by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, the ultra-high air pressure of this type of thermobaric weapon causes huge external forces to be applied to surrounding objects, and may even cause structural collapse.
Military History of Thermobaric Weapons
Thermobaric weapons were first attempted by Germany in World War I and were later used by the U.S. military in World War II and the Vietnam War. Developed and used over the decades by a number of nations, from Russia to China and, more recently, Ukraine, these weapons have had their impact felt on battlefields around the world.
Usage in Modern Warfare
During the battles in Afghanistan and Iraq, the U.S. military has repeatedly used thermobaric weapons, such as the famous CBU-55 fuel-air bomb, to specifically target enemy bunkers within combat zones.
Potential Threats to Personnel
According to research, the explosion of thermobaric weapons will not only cause physical destruction, but also cause damage to internal organs. The strong pressure waves will instantly change the pressure of the surrounding air, which can seriously affect or even tear a person's lungs. This unique death mechanism has been described as an "unpleasant death" as the victim may experience intense pain for a few seconds.
The sonic blast and the resulting vacuum phenomenon are the most lethal aspects of thermobaric weapons, making them an important weapon on the modern battlefield.
Ethical and Regulatory Considerations
As the use of thermobaric weapons in conflict increases, calls for regulating these weapons are growing. Although international organizations have attempted to regulate the use of thermobaric weapons, these efforts have so far failed to produce tangible results. As an effective weapon for military use, whether the development and use of this weapon is morally justified is worth our reflection.
ConclusionThere is no denying that thermobaric weapons are devastating and capable of destroying a variety of targets, including buildings. However, as such weapons are used more and more frequently on the battlefield, we also need to think: How can we safeguard the basic principles of humanitarianism while applying these powerful weapons?
