The ongoing conflict in Sudan has witnessed a significant escalation in drone warfare, with numerous reports of attacks on civilian areas, markets, and critical infrastructure. According to Radio Dabanga, between October 14 and 27, 2026, these attacks have resulted in hundreds of civilian casualties. The Sudanese government's military and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have been involved in these attacks, with both sides trading accusations over responsibility.
In the western region of Darfur, drone attacks have targeted markets and residential areas, leading to substantial civilian casualties. On October 17, a drone attack on the village of Hajur Senakid in West Darfur killed 11 civilians and injured six others, including children and students. Similarly, on October 18, a drone strike on the Al-Debab area in West Kordofan resulted in at least 139 fatalities and numerous injuries.
The city of Nyala, in South Darfur, has also been subjected to repeated drone attacks. On October 16, a drone strike on the city's livestock market killed 30 people and injured 47 others. Three days later, another attack on the city center resulted in 17 fatalities, including seven RSF personnel, and 23 injuries.
In addition to Darfur, other regions have experienced drone attacks. On October 19, the town of Al-Dein in East Darfur was targeted, with a drone strike on the local prison leading to the escape of approximately 400 inmates. The same day, a market in Al-Dein was attacked, resulting in 19 civilian fatalities and 21 injuries.
The conflict has also affected the disputed region of Abyei, where a drone attack on the Amiet market on October 19 caused widespread destruction and resulted in significant civilian casualties. The United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA) reported at least 80 fatalities and 27 injuries, although local sources raised the death toll to 153.
The capital city of Khartoum has not been immune to the drone attacks. On October 19, a drone strike near the airport killed three children and severely injured their mother. The incident highlighted the risks to residential areas posed by the ongoing aerial attacks.
The repeated drone attacks have also had a significant impact on Sudan's critical infrastructure. On October 26, coordinated drone strikes targeted five power plants across several states, leading to widespread electricity outages. These attacks have further exacerbated the humanitarian crisis in the country.
Key points
- Hundreds of civilians have been killed or injured in drone attacks across Sudan.
- The conflict has resulted in significant damage to critical infrastructure, including power plants and markets.
- Both the Sudanese military and the Rapid Support Forces have been accused of carrying out drone attacks on civilian areas.
