Drone warfare has become the leading cause of civilian deaths in Sudan's conflict, with advanced unmanned aircraft supplied by foreign backers enabling both the national military and the rival Rapid Support Forces to intensify attacks on densely populated areas. The United Nations human rights chief said drones account for more than 80 percent of conflict-related civilian deaths this year, with at least 880 civilians killed between January and April alone.

Since the war began in April 2023, at least 59,000 people have been killed and about 13 million displaced, with parts of the country pushed into famine. Drone strikes have hit hospitals, schools, dams, markets and displacement camps, particularly in the Kordofan region. Rights groups report dozens of recent attacks on civilian vehicles and infrastructure, raising concerns that some strikes may have deliberately targeted civilians.

Analysts say increasingly sophisticated drone technology from foreign suppliers has transformed the battlefield, allowing armed groups to expand their reach and carry out coordinated attacks. In cities such as el-Fasher, drones were reportedly used to cut communications and target trapped civilians during major assaults. With both sides continuing to acquire and deploy more advanced systems, experts warn that the escalating drone campaign is worsening civilian suffering and undermining prospects for peace.