Sudan army repels RSF drone attack on Atbara airport

November 18, 2024 (ATBARA) – Sudan’s army said it shot down several drones launched by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) targeting Atbara International Airport in River Nile state early on Monday.

Witnesses reported hearing drones flying over the town of Al-Fadlab near Atbara around 4:45 a.m. and seeing army anti-aircraft units engaging them.

The River Nile state security committee, comprising military and civilian officials, said in a statement that the RSF carried out a “failed attempt” to attack the airport.

The committee said air defences intercepted and downed the drones before they reached the airport, adding that the situation in Atbara was “secure and stable.”

This marks the second drone attack on Atbara since the conflict in Sudan erupted. A previous drone attack last April targeted a gathering of an army-supporting militia, killing 15 people.

Atbara Airport recently underwent renovations and expansion, including upgrades to its runway and passenger terminals, to prepare for domestic and international flights.

The attack comes amid intensified fighting between the army and the RSF across Sudan. The RSF has increasingly relied on drones to target army positions and civilian infrastructure.

In July, RSF drones attacked government buildings in Ad-Damir, the capital of River Nile state. The army base in Shendi, also in River Nile state, has been hit by multiple drone attacks this year.