Mali – Fibre Optic UAVs used for the first time by Azawad Liberation Front

On 28 July 2025, reports emerged of the Azawad Liberation Front (FLA) developing and testing fibre optic UAVs for the first time in the Sahel Region, Mali. Images released by FLA personnel depict OWA fibre optic UAVs with a Mark4 v2 10 inch frame. The UAVs, which are not fully assembled, are equipped with a modified 75 mm PG-7S RPG warhead and a 5 to 15 km fibre optic cable spool. Reports state they were possibly provided by Ukraine to combat the Malian Armed Forces (FAMa) and the Russian Africa Corps (REK).

The FLA are a political and military entity established in November 2024, calling for the independence of the Azawad Region. The creation of the FLA derives from a long-standing history of Tuareg rebellions in northern Mali, dating back to 1960. OverSite has recorded the emergence of UAVs including ISR, OWA and UAVs remotely delivering explosive devices across the Sahel. Additionally, OverSite has documented the use of drones by the FLA and Azawad separatist groups over the past 18 months.

For more information on this event, please contact EWS.

#Mali #Sahel #FrontDeLiberationDeL'Azawad #REK #FibreOpticUAV #OSINT