Drone strikes by the Rapid Support Forces signal a dangerous escalation in Sudan’s civil war. Following recent attacks on Port Sudan, the RSF showcases advancements in drone warfare, revealing shifts in strategy while worsening humanitarian conditions. Foreign involvement, especially from the UAE, is under scrutiny. Experts warn of increasing threats to regional stability and escalating civilian casualties.
A new phase in Sudan’s ongoing civil war emerges as the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) unleash drone attacks on Port Sudan, pushing the conflict to new, deadly levels. This comes not long after the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) celebrated reclaiming Khartoum. Experts are describing the RSF’s recent actions as a “shock and awe” campaign against what was thought to be a secure city housing government officials and humanitarian organizations, raising major concerns about civilian safety and infrastructure.
The drone strikes have resulted in extreme power outages and water shortages in Port Sudan, leading to significant distress among residents. According to Alan Boswell, a Horn of Africa expert, the RSF’s actions indicate a serious escalation. He observed that, “It’s a level of power projection within this region that we haven’t seen yet,” pointing to a shift in warfare tactics as the RSF pivots towards advanced drone warfare.
The ongoing civil war has its origins in a power struggle between the SAF and RSF but has now absorbed other armed groups and foreign interests. The conflict has created what the United Nations describes as the world’s worst humanitarian crisis. While the SAF had previously been buoyed by the advent of drone technology, the RSF has stepped up its UAV operations, especially following their retreat from central Sudan towards their eastern stronghold.
In recent months, the RSF has increased its drone strikes on vital civilian infrastructures controlled by the army, such as dams and power facilities. The recent drone strikes on Port Sudan highlight a strategic shift towards remote warfare, attempting to show resilience against their enemy forces. Kholood Khair, a Sudanese political analyst, expressed that the RSF is trying to shift the narrative, saying they aim to demonstrate, “You can have Port Sudan, but you won’t be able to govern it.”
While the RSF has not specifically addressed the attacks, they continue to claim the SAF is supported by Iran, alleging that military actions targeting RSF territory constitute war crimes. Both factions are under scrutiny for committing war crimes, with the RSF facing severe allegations, including mass rape and genocide. Changes in the RSF’s tactics, including the deployment of kamikaze drones, signal a mix of battlefield necessity and advancements in technology.
During initial strikes, the RSF reportedly utilized a swarm of 11 drones targeting a military airbase, demonstrating tactical innovation. Despite the SAF intercepting some of them, at least one drone managed to strike successfully. Satellite imagery has revealed advanced UAVs stationed in South Darfur, raising speculation about their origins.
Analysts suggest these drones may be sophisticated CH-95s of Chinese manufacture, capable of undertaking long-range attacks. The RSF could have possessed technology to bypass SAF air defenses, although this remains unverified. With both sides employing drone warfare, the RSF’s capacity to hit targets afar has redefined the contest.
Foreign involvement in the conflict cannot be overlooked. Observers note that the escalating use of drones has shifted the nature of warfare. Justin Lynch from the Conflict Insights Group stated, “This is a war of technology,” emphasizing how crucial foreign support has become in supplying these advanced weapons. The UAE has been accused of arming the RSF with drones, leading to the SAF cutting diplomatic ties, though the UAE vehemently denies such claims.
Amid increasing drone activity, the RSF has targeted infrastructure crucial to military and civilian survival. The port city, being vital for humanitarian aid, is now in jeopardy, intensifying fears of severe civilian casualties. The Sudanese government has voiced concerns over regional security, calling for international measures to address the role of foreign actors like the UAE.
The recent developments underscore a shift toward long-range drone warfare that has implications even beyond Sudan. Comparisons have emerged with global conflicts, illustrating a trend where traditional military advantages become less relevant. Binnie pointed out that with drones offering precision and cost efficiency, the dynamics in conflicts are fundamentally changing. The Sudanese foreign ministry’s plea for action indicates the statistics of uncertainty moving forward.
The escalating use of drone warfare by the RSF against strategic targets in Sudan marks a worrying trend in the civil war, reflecting advancements in military technology and foreign influence. As Port Sudan sees a shift from a safe haven to a target, the humanitarian crisis worsens. Caught in the crossfire of foreign interests and internal power struggles, the stability of the region remains in jeopardy. Without immediate diplomatic action, the conflict is unlikely to see resolution any time soon. The situation continues to evolve, warranting close international scrutiny.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
