Documents Reveal UAE's Air Support for Sudan's Rapid Support Forces

New documents and reports have unveiled the use of UAE flights to transport weapons to Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF), which have been embroiled in a bloody conflict since April 2023.

Flight data and satellite imagery obtained by Reuters show dozens of cargo planes from the UAE landing at a small airstrip in Um Jarras, eastern Chad, allegedly used for smuggling weapons across the border into Sudan.

According to reports, at least 86 flights have been recorded from the UAE to the airstrip since the conflict began. The United Nations confirmed that most of these flights were operated by airlines previously accused of transporting weapons to Libya.

Recent footage revealed wooden platforms loaded with khaki-colored boxes, some bearing the UAE flag. Experts suggest that the boxes likely contain ammunition or weapons, based on their design and color, rather than humanitarian aid.

The UAE government denied these allegations, stating that it had sent 159 relief flights carrying over 10,000 tons of food and medical supplies to support a field hospital in Um Jarras.

Meanwhile, analyst Justin Lynch highlighted that the UAE’s logistical support has bolstered the RSF’s position in the conflict, worsening the toll on civilian casualties.

A spokesperson for the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies said they were unaware of the field hospital claimed by the UAE.

Intelligence reports suggest that humanitarian aid shipments might be a cover for transferring weapons and ammunition to Sudan. Multiple reports have documented over 170 flights from the UAE to eastern Chad, half of which were operated by companies not previously associated with such activities.

While the United States, the United Kingdom, and the African Union are closely monitoring the military support provided to the RSF by the UAE, no official accusations have been made against the Emirati government so far.