Drones are making Sudan’s war even deadlier for civilians
CAIRO — Unmanned aerial vehicles, commonly known as drones, have emerged as a significant threat to civilian populations in the ongoing conflict in Sudan. Both the military and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces are reportedly receiving drone supplies from various countries in the Middle East and beyond, raising concerns among experts.
According to United Nations human rights chief Volker Türk, armed drones have become the leading cause of civilian casualties, accounting for over 80% of conflict-related deaths. The use of drones has resulted in the deaths of at least 880 civilians between January and April, prompting calls for measures to prevent their transfer to Sudan.
The conflict in Sudan, which began in April 2023, has already claimed the lives of at least 59,000 people and displaced millions, pushing parts of the country into famine. Recent drone attacks by the Rapid Support Forces on Khartoum International Airport and other areas near the capital have further escalated tensions.
Foreign-supplied advanced drone technology has enabled both warring parties to expand their strikes on densely populated areas, complicating peace efforts and fueling concerns of a broader proxy conflict. The use of drones as a force multiplier on the battlefield has allowed for strategic advantages in securing territory and disrupting enemy defenses.
In 2025, a significant increase in drone-related deaths and attacks was reported, with over 2,670 individuals, including combatants and civilians, losing their lives. Drone strikes have targeted civilian infrastructure such as hospitals, schools, markets, and displacement camps, leading to a devastating impact on the civilian population.
The use of drones by both the army and the Rapid Support Forces in Sudan has raised concerns about the indiscriminate targeting of civilians. The RSF’s utilization of drones, particularly modified models supplied by the United Arab Emirates, has been a significant development in the conflict.
The involvement of external actors in supplying drone technology to the warring parties has further complicated the situation. Countries like Turkey, Russia, Iran, and Egypt have been linked to supplying the army’s drone technology, while networks associated with the UAE have supported the RSF.
Cross-border drone activity, including recent accusations against Ethiopia and the UAE, has added to the rising civilian casualties in Sudan. The lack of resolution in the conflict, coupled with ongoing investments in war efforts, indicates a grim outlook for the affected population.
