Fighting intensifies in northern Mali. The Azawad Liberation Front, in alliance with Al Qaeda-linked jihadist groups, claims to have taken control of the city of Kidal. The military junta governing the country now faces growing pressure as rebels seek to expel the last Russian fighters deployed in the area.
Drones and asymmetric warfare: technology in the desert 🛸
The recapture of Kidal has brought the use of surveillance and attack technology to the forefront. Separatists employ modified commercial drones for reconnaissance, while government forces rely on Russian armored vehicles and satellite communication systems. However, the lack of coverage in the desert limits the effectiveness of radars and precision artillery, leaving control of the territory in the hands of guerrilla tactics.
Sand rental: the business that never ends 🏜️
While the Tuareg fight over Kidal, the Russians must wonder if the security contract included paid vacation clauses in the Sahel. With 50 degrees in the shade and the only shade being that of a broken-down tank, the mercenaries probably dream of a change of destination: perhaps Ukraine, where at least there are trees to hide behind. The war in Mali is a business, but the client is always thirsty.