Sudan’s War Increases Regional Tensions Amid Drone Use and Gold Conflicts

On May 4, the situation in Sudan escalated dramatically when the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) launched a series of suicide drone attacks on Port Sudan, the strategic hub for the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) on the Red Sea. The SAF has accused foreign entities of aiding the RSF in these aggressive maneuvers and has taken the unprecedented step of threatening to cut ties with one of its major trading allies, a move analysts believe could have significant economic consequences.

The RSF’s recent drone strikes have raised concerns, particularly as they targeted installations such as an army base, a civilian airport, hotels, and a fuel depot, all of which were previously considered safe locations. Local relief workers reported a substantial displacement of residents from Port Sudan, with many seeking refuge elsewhere due to the increasing violence.

Since the onset of the civil conflict in April 2023, the SAF has maintained aerial superiority owing to its advanced fleet of warplanes and drones. However, the RSF has swiftly adapted to the battlefield with an expanding arsenal of suicide drones, effectively narrowing the gap in aerial capability. Suliman Baldo, founder of the Sudan Transparency and Policy Tracker, indicated that Sudan has entered a new phase of drone warfare over recent months, with both factions ramping up their use of these advanced technologies.

The SAF has primarily utilized Turkish-made Bayraktar TB2 drones, which are known for their long-range and substantial payload capacities. The Sudanese army has reportedly acquired about 0 million in these drones since late 2023, aiding in regaining territories from the RSF across Sudan, including the capital city of Khartoum.

Amidst these developments, accusations have surfaced regarding the UAE’s alleged support for the RSF, pointing to the acquisition of Chinese-made drones that have been instrumental in the RSF’s recent operations. However, officials from the UAE have categorically denied these claims, describing them as unfounded.

The announcement on May 6 by Port Sudan’s army-backed authorities to sever ties with the UAE reflects a complicated geopolitical dynamic. Experts warn that this decision may jeopardize Sudan’s vital economic connections, particularly considering that a UAE-backed company, Emiral Resources, holds significant shares in Sudan’s largest gold mine. According to reports, the Central Bank of Sudan highlighted that in 2023, a staggering 97% of gold exports from army-controlled areas were directed to the UAE.

Despite tensions, the UAE has reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining strong relations with Sudan, emphasizing the depth of their ties.

As this situation unfolds, the international community watches closely, with fears that the conflict may deepen and exacerbate the humanitarian crises facing the civilian population. Those who monitor the situation predict that the ongoing conflict could compel regional powers to intensify their involvement, further complicating an already volatile scenario.

While the future remains uncertain, Sudan’s resilience and potential for reconciliation underscore the nation’s enduring spirit amid the turmoil.

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