Türkiye supplied several drones to Sudan’s army in late 2024, significantly impacting the ongoing conflict against the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), multiple sources confirmed to Middle East Eye.

Since the civil war erupted in April 2023, Ankara has backed Sudanese army chief General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan against the RSF, led by Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo (Hemeti). However, the delivery of Turkish Bayraktar TB2 drones in October 2024 marked Türkiye’s first direct military support to Sudan’s government, shifting the balance of power on the battlefield.

According to sources, the drones have been instrumental in targeting RSF logistics convoys, artillery batteries, and response units. They have accelerated the army’s advances in key locations, including Khartoum and el-Obeid, a strategic hub connecting Darfur to the capital.

“With the arrival of the drones, the RSF’s superiority ended. Now we have air support that matches our strength on the ground,” a senior Sudanese army officer told MEE.

On the other hand, RSF fighters describe the drones as an overwhelming force. “You can’t see it. You can’t shoot it. And suddenly, you find that you have died,” one RSF fighter said.

Türkiye’s military assistance aligns Ankara with Egypt in support of Sudan’s government, while the United Arab Emirates continues backing the RSF. Despite Türkiye’s improving ties with the UAE, Ankara positions its involvement as part of a broader regional effort to stabilize Sudan.

In December, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan offered to mediate between Sudan and the UAE, emphasizing Türkiye’s commitment to Sudan’s territorial integrity and sovereignty.

This development further deepens regional geopolitical dynamics as Sudan’s war continues to draw international actors into the conflict.