How off-the-shelf drones are changing jihadist warfare in West Africa
Summary
Jihadist groups in West Africa are using off-the-shelf drones to conduct attacks, mainly in Nigeria, Burkina Faso, and Mali. These drones, which are commercially available, are often rigged with explosives and used for surveillance. Despite restrictions on drones, these groups obtain them through smuggling networks.Key Facts
- Jihadist groups are increasingly using drones for attacks in West Africa.
- At least 69 drone strikes have been recorded by an al-Qaeda affiliate in Burkina Faso and Mali since 2023.
- Islamic State affiliates have carried out about 20 drone strikes, mainly in Nigeria.
- A recent attack in Nigeria's Borno state involved armed drones and ground fighters.
- Drones used in these attacks are often commercial quadcopters equipped with explosives.
- The jihadists get the drones through smuggling networks, bypassing strict government import controls.
- The use of drones lowers costs and allows militants to gather intelligence or strike targets with less risk.
- Al-Qaeda-affiliated JNIM has conducted the most drone attacks, with 69 strikes in Mali and Burkina Faso.
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