By Dayo Johnson

Informed sources revealed that Turkish-made Akinci drones took part in airstrikes launched from Egypt’s East Uweinat Airport against Sudanese territory. Satellite imagery reviewed by the sources confirmed the presence of these drones at the mentioned airbase.

East Uweinat Airport, located in southwestern Egypt near the borders with Sudan and Libya, has become a strategic site for regional military operations. It is listed as a small, non-commercial airport (IATA: GSQ, ICAO: HEOW), positioned at coordinates 22.584256, 28.721609, with an altitude of 843 feet (257 meters).

Reports suggest that the strikes targeted positions held by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), indicating foreign involvement in Sudan’s ongoing conflict. Previous findings have linked Turkey to the supply of drones and ammunition to the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF).

According to a recent UN report, Türkiye supplied the Sudanese army with TB2 and Akinci drones, as well as ground control stations, through intermediaries to avoid detection. The report valued these transfers at approximately $120 million.

The ongoing conflict has seen significant drone warfare, with the RSF claiming to have downed several Turkish-made drones in various regions, including Darfur and Kordofan. Documented incidents include airstrikes that resulted in civilian casualties and infrastructure damage.

International reports, including a 2023 Washington Post investigation, highlighted shipments of Turkish drones and missiles to Sudan, reportedly facilitated by defense manufacturer Baykar. The report included documentation on intermediaries, shipment details, and coordination efforts on the ground.

The growing foreign involvement, including that of Turkey and Iran, has intensified the conflict and raised concerns about violations of international arms embargoes. Despite a UN Security Council decision in October 2024 to extend the embargo on Darfur, enforcement against external suppliers remains limited.

The situation underscores how Sudan’s internal conflict has evolved into a broader geopolitical contest, with competing powers seeking influence through military and economic leverage.