By Dr Abdelmonin Ali
The introduction of drones in the conflict in Sudan has brought about a significant shift in the dynamics between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and Rapid Support Forces (RSF). After a year-long battle, the SAF has achieved a major victory by capturing the National Radio and Television Headquarters in Omdurman, thanks to the assistance of Iranian drones. This victory in Omdurman is a significant milestone for the SAF as it is the first win over the RSF since the conflict began on April 15, 2023.
However, the RSF has responded to the SAF’s advancements and drone superiority by launching retaliatory drone attacks on the SAF barracks. Videos circulating on social media have confirmed the precise and technologically advanced drone strikes carried out by the RSF on the town of Babanusa, the SAF infantry division 22 in the western region of Kordofan. They have also targeted the SAF Signal Corps and General Command buildings in Khartoum, as well as various training camps in Shendi, north of Khartoum. Sources from the Sudanese journalists online have confirmed that the RSF have obtained a variety of short-range ballistic missiles, along with drones that are currently operational. Recent reports conclude that these new military resources have received backing from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) through Libya and Chad.
The utilization of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) is a transformative factor that leads to swift triumph. But the civilians are the hardest hit caused by the imprecise and highly destructive nature of drone attacks. A similar situation unfolded in Ethiopia two years ago, where the federal forces were able to defeat the Tigray militias with the help of Turkish Bayraktar drones.
However, the situation in Sudan differs from the Ethiopian conflict, as both sides now possess unmanned aerial vehicles and drones. With the recent alliance between some Darfuri armed groups Justice and Equality Movement (JEM) and the Sudan Liberation Movement, led by Minawi, with the Sudanese army, and their planned offensive from eastern Sudan towards Wad Madani to confront the RSF, the question remains: will the Sudanese army ultimately emerge victorious?
