Sudanese army downs strategic drone near Ethiopian border

The Sudanese army announced it shot down a “hostile strategic” drone on Thursday morning in Blue Nile State, north of the Sirkum area. According to the General Command of the Armed Forces, the unmanned aerial vehicle entered Sudanese airspace from the direction of Ethiopia.

The military did not specify the drone's model, payload, or intended target, nor did it identify the entity operating the aircraft. While the army noted the drone crossed the border from Ethiopia, no official comment has been issued by Ethiopian authorities regarding the incident.

This event marks the third time the Sudanese army has reported downing a drone in Blue Nile State within five days. The region is a strategic location due to its borders with Ethiopia and South Sudan, serving as a vital supply line amidst the ongoing conflict between the army and the Rapid Support Forces. The increasing use of drones in the area highlights the expanding nature of the civil war and the potential for cross-border involvement.