Drones used in Sudan have carried out over 1,000 attacks since April

Sudan’s Civil War: A Visual Examination of Drone Warfare

A visual analysis by Al Jazeera has shed light on the use of drones in Sudan’s ongoing civil war. The conflict, which began in April 2023, has seen both sides rely heavily on unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), or drones.

The Rapid Support Forces (RSF) paramilitary group, which traces its origins to a government-linked militia known as the Janjaweed, has been at the forefront of drone usage. The RSF was formally established in 2013 and has since become a key player in the conflict.

According to open-source intelligence initiatives, Sudan’s flat terrain and limited cover make it well-suited for drone strikes and surveillance. The RSF has used drones with varying ranges, including those from China and Turkey, such as the Wing Loong II and Bayraktar TB2.

The Sudanese army, on the other hand, uses Iranian-made drones, including the Mohajer-6 combat UAV, which can carry a multispectral surveillance payload and precision-guided munitions. The RSF has also been armed with drones by its allies, including Chinese- and Serbian-manufactured models.

Attacks have occurred across Sudan, with the Sidon fuel depot in Atbara, River Nile State, being targeted by RSF drones in April. The use of drones has resulted in significant damage to infrastructure and has plunged cities into darkness.

The human toll of drone warfare in Sudan is substantial, with civilians bearing the brunt of the conflict. The conflict has also seen widespread destruction of villages, mass killings, and sexual violence.

A 2024 Amnesty International report notes that the RSF has no air force, but its allies have provided it with UAVs. This has allowed the RSF to strike from a distance, giving it an advantage over the Sudanese army.

The use of drones in Sudan’s civil war is a complex issue, with both sides relying on these unmanned aerial vehicles for their military operations. The conflict has resulted in significant human suffering and destruction, highlighting the need for a peaceful resolution.

Source: Al Jazeera