Thermobaric weapons, also known as aerosol or vacuum bombs, are conventional weapons that have re-entered public discourse in parallel with the global increase in armed conflict. Yet, there is limited public knowledge about thermobaric weapons, fostering certain misconceptions. This includes misunderstandings regarding their capabilities, the misidentification of thermobaric weapon use and uncertainty about the future trajectory of these weapons. Their powerful blast capabilities and lack of legal oversight also raise questions about their regulation under international law. There is a need for accessible and trusted information on the use, capabilities and limitations of thermobaric weapons.
Organized as part of UNIDIR’s Science and Technology Watchtower project, this event will provide a platform for experts to discuss what thermobaric weapons are, what threats they pose to civilians, the existing regulations regarding their development and deployment, their transfer and use and their future trajectory. It will provide trusted expert information that will benefit the diplomatic and arms control community, as well as public audiences.
Speakers
- Arthur van Coller, Associate Professor, University of Fort Hare
- Trevor Ball, Weapons Technical Analyst, Armament Research Services
Moderator
- Tanya Gill, Graduate Professional, Conventional Weapons Programme, UNIDIR
When and where
Monday, 7 September 2026 | 15:00–16:15 CET | Online
Check your local time here.
RSVP
For online participation, please register here.
Further information
For any questions, please contact Tanya Gill at tanya.gill@un.org.
More information on the agenda will be shared in due course.
Funded by
