Foreign Drone Support Prolongs Conflict in Sudan

The conflict in Sudan has escalated due to the influx of drones supplied by Iran and the UAE to rival factions. Iranian-made UAVs have enhanced the combat capabilities of the SAF, while the RSF relies on resources from the UAE and Russia. This foreign military support violates United Nations embargos and has negative repercussions on civilian populations, complicating peace efforts amidst rising casualties and humanitarian crises.

Since early January, Iranian cargo planes have frequently landed at Port Sudan’s airport, the stronghold of Sudan’s ruling junta under General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan of the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF). Following the arrival of these aircraft, the SAF utilized Iranian-manufactured Mohajer-6 unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to launch assaults on their adversaries, the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). Simultaneously, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Russia, through the mercenary group Africa Corps, have provided the RSF with weaponry and resources, including drones designed to deploy 120 mm mortar shells.

Drones have emerged as a crucial element in the ongoing conflict, in which two rival generals vie for control over Sudan’s extensive natural resources. The influx of UAVs from Iran, Russia, and the UAE signifies their backing of opposing forces in the hopes of securing advantageous positions post-conflict, even though such deliveries breach a United Nations arms embargo.

Support from Russia and the UAE has been funneled into Sudan via neighboring nations such as Chad and Libya. Reports indicate that the UAE has disguised its support for the RSF as humanitarian aid intended for displaced civilians in Chad. Furthermore, Africa Corps has leveraged its existing networks in Syria and Libya to smuggle missiles and arms to the RSF. Meanwhile, Russia officially stands with the SAF, keen on establishing a strategic presence along Sudan’s Red Sea coast.

The UAE has also distributed quadcopter drones to allied forces in conflict zones, including Ethiopia and Yemen. Both the RSF and SAF have employed these drones in assaults, targeting military positions as well as civilians. Notably, RSF drones have inflicted damage on civilian institutions, such as hospitals, while the SAF utilized drone strikes that resulted in significant civilian casualties, exemplified by a devastating market attack.

The introduction of Iranian drones allowed the SAF to stage offensives against the RSF, reclaiming control of critical sites including the state broadcaster. The ongoing violence since April 2023 has resulted in over 15,000 fatalities and displaced millions, with many experts claiming that the actual figures may be significantly higher due to hindrances in accessibility for assessment teams. Health professionals report alarming mortality rates among vulnerable populations, including children and pregnant women suffering from preventable diseases in North Darfur due to disrupted medical services.

Experts warn that the continued influx of drones into Sudan is likely to perpetuate the conflict, undermining international efforts for peace. Notably, the SAF declined to participate in peace negotiations in Saudi Arabia in May. According to Sudan expert Hamid Khalafallah, the conclusion of UAE support for the RSF could substantially alter the dynamics of the war, stating, “If the UAE withdraws its support and cuts ties with the RSF today, there’s an 80 percent chance the war might end tomorrow.”

The ongoing conflict in Sudan stems from a power struggle between two factions led by General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan of the Sudanese Armed Forces and his rival, the commander of the Rapid Support Forces. The situation has been exacerbated by external interventions, notably from Iran, Russia, and the UAE, who supply drones and military resources to these rival factions. The involvement of arms from these nations has brought international scrutiny, particularly as it contravenes established arms embargos by the United Nations. The complexity of the situation is heightened by humanitarian crises arising from the conflict, revealed by increased civilian casualties and crises in medical infrastructure.

The conflict in Sudan, driven by a fierce power struggle, has been significantly impacted by the influx of drones and military support from foreign nations, particularly Iran, Russia, and the UAE. This external involvement not only undermines peace efforts but also exacerbates the humanitarian crisis within the country. The potential cessation of aid from the UAE to the RSF is highlighted as a significant factor that could change the trajectory of the war. The severity of the conflict demands urgent international attention to address the humanitarian needs and push for a sustainable resolution.

Original Source: www.defenceweb.co.za