Russian African Corps Forms Aviation Group at Mali Air Base
African media report Russia’s African Corps formed a major air group in Mali, with Su-24M bombers, helicopters and drones operating in the Sahel.
According to African media reports, the Russian Armed Forces’ African Corps has completed the formation of its aviation group deployed in Mali.
Russian units are reportedly based at Modibo Keita International Airport. Observers say the scale of Russia’s presence in the country has become the largest since the Soviet era.
The Telegram channel Oboronka reported that the aviation group includes Su-24M bombers, around ten Mi-8AMTSh multipurpose helicopters, four Mi-24P helicopters and at least one heavy Mi-26 transport helicopter. Reconnaissance and strike UAVs are represented by Inokhodets drones.
According to observers, roughly 1,200 specialists are responsible for operating and maintaining the aircraft. It is also noted that from its airfield in Mali, the African Corps conducts operations in neighboring countries that are part of the Alliance of Sahel States. The authorities of these countries have praised the actions of Russian units in the fight against terrorist groups.
On April 25, terrorist groups attacked Mali’s capital Bamako, as well as the cities of Kati, Gao, Kidal and Mopti. Military bases, airports and administrative buildings came under fire. The Russian African Corps helped government forces repel the attacks and prevented an attempted seizure of power.