Mali Rebels Claim Use of Drone to Down Army Helicopter in Kidal Region

Mali’s FLA rebel group claimed to have downed an army helicopter using a drone, but the military did not confirm this assertion and stated they intercepted a terrorist drone. The conflict has intensified following the rebels’ retreat to northern Mali after heavy losses attributed to Russian support for the army. The situation remains complicated by regional and international influences.

The Front for the Liberation of Azawad (FLA) rebel group claimed that they utilized a drone to down an army helicopter in the Kidal region of Mali. Although the FLA spokesperson, Mohamed Elmaouloud Ramadane, asserted this to AFP, the Malian military has not confirmed the claim. They reported intercepting a drone, labelling it as a terrorist device, rather than acknowledging any loss of their helicopter.

In a statement released by the Malian army general staff, they reported that the drone was intercepted near the airport area of Tessalit on February 11. They stated the drone was observed attempting to monitor a Malian Armed Forces (FAMA) helicopter, which had subsequently returned safely to its base after being refueled. The military dismissed the FLA’s assertion as untrue.

Following their defeat in Kidal due to the support of Russian mercenaries in late 2023, the rebels relocated further north towards the Algerian border. They were responsible for a July attack that resulted in numerous casualties among Malian soldiers and Wagner Group personnel. Reports suggested that Ukrainian military intelligence might have assisted the rebels during this attack, though Ukraine denied supplying intelligence or drones.

The FLA, formed through the merger of several Tuareg groups late last year, aims to claim territory in northern Mali. The military junta currently governing Mali has pivoted from its traditional alliances with France and European nations to establish military and political ties with Russia, reflecting a significant shift in the country’s foreign policy.

In summary, the FLA’s claim of downing a Malian army helicopter remains unverified as the military denies any losses and asserts that a drone was intercepted. The evolving dynamics in Mali, particularly with the military’s shift towards Russian support, highlight the complexities of the conflict involving the rebel groups and their operations. The underlying tensions and geopolitical influences continue to shape the future of Mali’s security landscape.

Original Source: thedefensepost.com