Satellite images show rapid RSF drone buildup in South Darfur
36 launchers were visible in the latest imagery, with 20 of them newly installed since the September 26 observation. According to researchers, the combination of drones and launchers represents "a sign of imminent attack".
Sudan's paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have deployed at least 43 unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) at Nyala airport in South Darfur, satellite imagery reviewed by the Yale School of Public Health's Humanitarian Research Lab (HRL) has revealed.
According to HRL, the drones were not present in imagery from September 26, highlighting a rapid military expansion at the RSF-controlled airbase.
In addition, 36 launchers were visible in the latest imagery, with 20 of them newly installed since the September 26 observation. According to researchers, the combination of drones and launchers represents "a sign of imminent attack".
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"The presence of this combination of UAVs in the position observed should be considered a sign of imminent attack. These UAVs represent a clear and present danger to civilians, critical infrastructure, and humanitarian aid access," said HRL in an emergency alert on Monday.
Of the 43 drones, 23 are Shahed-style long-range delta-wing UAVs, which have wingspans of about 2.5 metres and lengths of approximately 2.8 to 3 metres. The remaining 20 UAVs measure around 1.5 metres by 2 metres and are located near launchers.
According to HRL, the delta-wing drones function as "suicide drones", which are not intended for reuse and are often destroyed by colliding with a target. Some of the drones, HRL says, are equipped with photo and video capabilities.
Yale added that the Shahed-style UAVs at Nyala are consistent with types observed on May 6, 2025, in the same area.
"This May 6 instance corresponds to RSF's UAV attacks on Port Sudan between May 3 and 7, 2025, by RSF-deployed drones, approximately 1600 kilometres from Nyala," said HRL.
"The long-range delta-wing UAVs are estimated to have a range of between 1500-2000 kilometres; therefore, the entirety of Sudan is assessed within range of the long-range delta-wing UAVs in Nyala."
The HRL alert also cites open-source information indicating that the RSF receives backing from the United Arab Emirates (UAE), with some UAVs reportedly delivered via Chad.
Researchers at Yale HRL produced the report through a combination of satellite imagery, thermal sensor data, and open-source analysis, including social media, local news, and other multimedia sources.
The war between Sudan's army and the RSF broke out in April 2023 in the capital, Khartoum, and has since spread across the country.
According to UN officials, the fighting has claimed at least 40,000 lives and forced up to 12 million people to flee their homes.
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