RSF Launches First Drone Strike on Port Sudan, Targets Airbase and Civilian Sites

Sudan’s paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) launched a drone attack on Port Sudan on Sunday. For the first time, the group targeted the Red Sea city, hitting both military and civilian areas.

No Deaths Reported So Far

According to the military, the strike did not result in any deaths. Still, it marked a significant escalation. Port Sudan has acted as the temporary headquarters of the government since the war began more than two years ago.

Military Confirms Damage at Airbase

Brigadier General Nabil Abdullah, the army’s spokesperson, confirmed the strike. He said RSF drones hit an ammunition depot at the Osman Digna airbase, which triggered several explosions. Moreover, the attack also damaged a cargo storage facility and other civilian buildings.

Shortly after the attack, videos surfaced on social media. They showed thick black smoke rising above the airbase. As a result, Port Sudan’s airport suspended flights temporarily, according to the country’s civil aviation authority.

Port Sudan Remains Critical for Travel

Since RSF fighters took control of Khartoum’s main airport at the start of the war, Port Sudan has served as Sudan’s key entry point. Although the military regained control of Khartoum airport earlier this year, the site is still not operational.

RSF Remains Silent

So far, the RSF has not issued a statement about the latest attack. In recent weeks, RSF fighters have increased drone strikes on government-held areas. For example, last month they targeted a major power station in Atbara, a city north of Khartoum known for its railway links.

Military Regains Capital, RSF Expands Elsewhere

Earlier this year, the army reclaimed control of Khartoum. In response, the RSF withdrew to its stronghold in the Darfur region. However, the group advanced in other parts of Sudan. Notably, they captured the country’s largest camp for displaced people in North Darfur and seized a strategic town in West Kordofan.

Satellite Images Reveal Drone Capability

Meanwhile, experts have tracked the RSF’s growing drone arsenal. In April, Yale University’s Humanitarian Research Lab released a report based on satellite imagery. It found six high-grade drones at RSF-controlled Nyala Airport in Darfur. The report noted that these Chinese-made drones “may be capable of long-range surveillance and strikes.”

International Reactions Strong

Several countries condemned the latest attacks. On Sunday, Saudi Arabia denounced RSF strikes “on vital facilities and infrastructure in Port Sudan and Kassala.” Similarly, Egypt warned that such actions weaken “efforts to restore stability” in Sudan.

Analyst Explains RSF Strategy

A retired Sudanese army general spoke to AFP anonymously. He explained the RSF’s intent behind these attacks. “There is no safe place,” he said, referring to the message RSF wants to send. Additionally, he noted the group aims “to halt air traffic” and “impact the armed forces’ supply chain.”