Sudan army chief vows to build ‘smart army’ using drone tech

February 23, 2026 (KHARTOUM) – Sudan’s military leader, General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, said on Monday the armed forces would accelerate the development of drone technology and air defence systems to build a “smart army” capable of managing modern technical warfare.

Speaking at a graduation ceremony at Karary University and the Naval College, Burhan emphasized that the integration of information technology and scientific research is now a cornerstone of modern military operations.

He stated that the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) would focus on developing unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), mobile weaponry, and advanced defensive systems.

Drones have played an increasingly decisive role in the conflict between the army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) since it erupted in April 2023.

Both sides have utilized UAVs for surveillance, intelligence gathering, and precision strikes, fundamentally changing the nature of field confrontations. To support this shift, Burhan announced plans to recruit young engineering and technical specialists into the military’s research divisions.

Regarding the broader conflict, Burhan stated that the military would continue the “Battle of Dignity” until the RSF is defeated or surrenders. He described the current war as one of the most difficult existential challenges in Sudan’s history.

Despite his hardline stance against the RSF leadership, Burhan offered a pardon to fighters who he claimed were “deceived” into joining the rebellion, urging them to lay down their weapons and return to the national fold.

He also warned political figures that “fabricating charges” against the military would be met with legal accountability.

The General reiterated that the military institution remains a non-partisan guardian of the state, committed to national sovereignty regardless of tribal or political affiliations.