The Rapid Support Forces (RSF) launched a drone strike on Port Sudan on Sunday. This was the first attack on the Red Sea city, according to the military.

RSF Targets Military Base and Civilian Areas

The RSF hit Osman Digna airbase. Brigadier General Nabil Abdullah explained that the drones targeted an ammunition warehouse, causing explosions. Additionally, the attack damaged a cargo warehouse and some civilian buildings.

Fortunately, there were no fatalities from the attack. Video footage shared on social media showed thick smoke rising from the airbase.

Temporary Halt to Airport Operations

The strike briefly disrupted operations at Port Sudan’s airport. The civil aviation authority paused air traffic for a short time. Since the start of the war, this airport has become Sudan’s main entry point. The RSF initially took control of Khartoum’s airport, but the military regained it earlier this year. However, the Khartoum airport is still not fully operational.

RSF Increases Drone Attacks

While the RSF has not issued an official comment, this attack is part of a growing trend. Recently, the RSF has escalated drone strikes on military-controlled areas. For example, last month, the RSF targeted a major power plant in Atbara, located north of Khartoum.

Military Rebounds in Khartoum

The military has made significant gains in Khartoum this year, pushing the RSF into Darfur. However, as the army consolidates its control over the capital, the RSF continues to advance in other parts of the country. They captured Sudan’s largest displaced persons camp in North Darfur and seized a crucial town in West Kordofan province.

Drones Spotted in Darfur

According to satellite imagery analyzed by Yale University’s Humanitarian Research Lab, six advanced drones are currently located at Nyala Airport in Darfur. In an April report, the lab noted that these Chinese-made drones “may be capable of long-range surveillance and strikes.”

International Condemnation

Both Saudi Arabia and Egypt condemned the RSF’s recent attacks. Saudi Arabia, which had mediated previous peace talks, criticized the RSF for targeting vital facilities in Port Sudan and Kassala. Similarly, Egypt stated that these attacks undermine “efforts to restore stability” in Sudan.

RSF’s Message and Strategic Goals

A retired Sudanese army general spoke to AFP, requesting anonymity. He explained that the RSF is sending a clear message: “There is no safe place.” He added, “Their other objective is to halt air traffic” and disrupt the “armed forces’ supply chain.”