Kagame makes some other adjustments in his new administration

 

Yvonne umulisa

Michelle Byusa

Jules Ndenga

Irene Murerwa

Brave Ngabo

Eva Nishimwe

More than 5 injured in a reckless driving accident along Bunagana-kisoro road at Gasave

Yesterday evening,a Rwandan vehicle RAF 698C Land Cruiser V8 had a head-on collision with a UNHCR bus UBE 621V carrying refugees from DRC  at Gasave,at the extreme border point of Nyakinama and Bunagana town council(a point commonly know by the locals as "Kwa kadenge", Kisoro along Kisoro-Bunagana road.

The Injured victims were rushed to Kisoro hospital ,where the Rwandan Nationals are reportedly to have been evacuated to Rwanda today.Maate, the Kigezi Region Police Spokesperson, confirmed the incident occurred on Saturday at approximately 5:10 pm in Gasave village, Nyakinama Sub County, along the Kisoro-Bunagana road involving two vehicles: a black Toyota Land Cruiser V8 registration number RAF 698C and a white TATA bus registration number UBE 621V belonging to UNHCR.

 

The bus was driven by Gimmei Richard Moses, who was transporting asylum seekers from Bunagana border between the DRC and Uganda to the Nyakabande transit center in Kisoro, but upon reaching Gasave village, the bus encountered an oncoming Land Cruiser that was driving in the wrong lane.

 

“The bus driver attempted to avoid a collision by veering to the extreme left, but the Land Cruiser driver maintained his position on the right, resulting in a head-on collision,” said Maate.

 

Maate names the injured as Karase, a Rwandan national and driver of the Land Cruiser V8; Erick, a Rwandan national and passenger in the same vehicle; and several Congolese asylum seekers: Hatekekiza Kamara, Musafiri Bikou, Ndashima Shinan, Mukunda Esiyeri, Gato Kizza, Bonakira Baryanguma, Denise Nyirakwize, and Twisinge Taburiya.

 

He says that police visited the scene, documented the accident, and the victims were promptly transported to Kisoro Hospital. Both vehicles were towed to Kisoro Central Police Station for inspection

Marburg outbreak in Rwanda

 

Chàos in Goma, at least 2 dead and around twenty injured

Clashes broke out this Thursday, September 26 in Goma between the FARDC and the armed group Wazalendo . At least two people were killed and about twenty injured in these clashes. The situation is particularly tense in the displaced persons camps of Mugunga, Lushagala, Sam-Sam and Rusayo, where exchanges of fire were reported. Following these events, a massive displacement of the population was observed. The local authorities have not yet communicated on the situation.

Watch the video below...

Rumours of More than 450 elements of the Rwandan army (RDF) went to UGANDA.

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There is a rumour running Congolese media that a good  number of Rwandan elements who were in M23 have escaped to Uganda after disputes and fatigue over the war.According to claims,the battalion commander of these Rwandan soldiers who went to Uganda, say they have decided to stop the War in the DRC because it is a useless War which causes a great loss in the ranks of the RDF, he declared.

We do not want to return to Rwanda because we will all be executed, even those who remain on Congolese soil are planning how they will boycott this War, he said.

There is a report that former FDLR members who had been repatriated to Rwanda were deployed in M23

HE WAS APPREHENDED IN KAHUZI PARK IN SOUTH KIVU IN 2019 THEN REPATRIATED HOME TO RWANDA BUT HE CAME BACK UNDER AN RDF CAP IN THE M23, HE WILL BE PRESENTED BY THEN AMONG THE ELEMENTS APPREHENDED BY FARDC IN NORTH KIVU .You can watch the video.

Above is photo of Karuranga.

Repatriated to Rwanda in 2003 when he had the rank of Sergeant in the Democratic Force for the Liberation of Rwanda ( Fdlr ) in the Province of South Kivu , "Karuranga Alain Augustin is deployed today on Congolese soil by the Rwanda like others RDF who fight alongside the M23 rebels in the East of the RDC ". A human rights activist and member of civil society thinks that with this strategy of Kigali recycling former repatriated FLDR, then redeploying them to the Congo for aggression will not be able to promote peace in the region without real sanctions.

This is how Goma is highly guarded to repel any trial by M23 to attack it

 Watch the video below

Birth of a new group of Wazalendo to defend DRC land

 You can watch the video 

A new group of Wazalendo has just emerged, with the mission of defending the homeland. This movement is part of a desire to strengthen national solidarity and protect the interests of the country in the face of current challenges. The members of this group are committed to promoting the values ​​of courage and unity, essential to the defense of our sovereignty.

Deep inside DRC..One of the challenges faced in tracking the ADF rebels

 Bravo to all comrades who venture in ensuring peace....you can observe the obstacles!! Bravo to all our comrades 

There was a heavy shelling last night that target Somalia's Green zone

REPORTS from Mogadishu indicate that there was a  Heavy shelling overnight targeting the Halane Compound in Mogadishu, often referred to as Somalia’s Green Zone where Western embassies, the UN, the AU and other international organizastions are headquartered.

AlShabaab claimed responsibility for the mortar attack.

Kenyan multi-agency security team urgently responded to reports of Alshabaab terrorists sighted at Alango Warba within Garissa County.

The three  Alshabaab militants fled when they heard the Multi-agency security team was approaching, leaving behind IED making materials including TNT explosives, grenades, command wires, wristwatch, tester, and other assorted equipment. The security team is in hot pursuit of the terrorists.

The ongoing counter terrorism operations by security agencies in the wider North Eastern Region of Kenya have been fruitful in thwarting Alshabaab attacks and securing the locals who have vowed to enhance their cooperation in the fight against the terrorist group.

The fight against terrorism is too important to be left to the government. Let's all support the war on terror

Lt Fall Sikambwe presides over a closing ceremony of FARDC soldiers who were on training

 Lieutenant General Fall Sikabwe, Coordinator of Military Operations in North Kivu, presided over the closing ceremony of the training of the first group of elements FARDC . This training, provided by the team of the SAMIDRC , allowed the soldiers to improve their skills in several specialties. The objective is to improve their efficiency and ensure better interoperability with SAMIDRC forces during joint operations.

Is your phone safe from such Intelligence operations?MOSSAD 's remote blasts of mobile electronic gadgets of Hezbollah has shaken the world of external intelligence .

 

Israeli Intelligence demonstrated its extremely rare capabilities to the rest of the world.

Intelligence Operations especially  the external intelligence wings of various countries are no doubt in awe at such ingenuity & precision. 

More than three thousand Hezbollah members including top commanders were injured in this simultaneous hacked-booby trapped pager operations.

These series of blasts reportedly involved Taiwanese, Japanese, American, and European-made devices in Lebanon on September 17 and 18 and have prompted grave security concerns worldwide.

"Weaponizing mobile communications devices will fill many people with horror and fear,” Marc Ostwald, chief economist at ADM Investor Services International said. “It may, at the margin, dampen demand."

The Lebanese government attributed the attack to Israel, accusing Tel Aviv of an outright act of terrorism.

Given almost "unconditional support" provided to Israel by some Western countries, some of them may have colluded with Tel-Aviv, said Hasan Abdullah, analyst and researcher at Global Security and Strategy Institute.

"The US is going to be the country that's going to generate the greatest trust deficit with their customers, primarily because of its very close collaboration with Israel," 

The US has long been one of the largest suppliers of communication equipment, including for military needs, to the Global South, adding that  blasts could alienate the developing world from Western producers.

Earlier, researchers Mehmet Rakipoglu and military analyst Alexei Leonkov said they did not rule out US involvement in the Lebanon attack.

The Intercept reported on Wednesday that the US military had explored the possibility of planting remote-activated bombs in innocuous devices starting from the 1960s.

Middle East and other developing countries could eventually turn to Russian, Chinese or Turkish tech firms out of fear that the US involvement could compromise their security, Abdullah said.

Ostwald and Abdullah believe that several measures could be taken to stop the covert bombings, starting with investigations into manufacturing processes and ending with the deployment of international watchdogs to oversee production and supply.

Are we safe with our electronic devices?

Lebanon is reeling in the wake of 48 hours of terror attacks blamed on Israeli intelligence targeting Hezbollah through a series of coordinated explosions of electronic devices.

Which companies, brands and devices are involved?

Handheld communications equipment makers are in damage control mode after on Tuesday and Wednesday’s series of explosions across Lebanon, which have left scores of people dead and thousands injured.

For the privacy minded, the acts of terror add terrifying new risk, demonstrating that intelligence services can use your devices to not just spy on you, but kill you without provocation or due process, if you fall on their bad side. Here’s what we know about the companies whose products were involved in the Lebanon attacks:

1.Gold Apollo: This Taiwanese manufacturer of alphanumeric pagers, restaurant and hospitality wireless solutions is at the center of events, with the company’s AR924 series pagers exploding en masse (up to 5,000 simultaneously) in Lebanon and Syria on Tuesday. Gold Apollo founder Hsu Ching-Kuang told media the pagers in question were manufactured under license by BAC Consulting KFT, a shady Hungary-based subcontractor registered in 2022 with just one employee and run out of a small building in a residential neighborhood of Budapest with no visible outside presence.

Hsu claims Gold Apollo did not design or manufacture the deadly pagers - each thought to have been stuffed with three grams of explosives. Reached for commentary, BAC Consulting CEO Cristiana Barsony-Arcidiacono, an LSE and University of London graduate and former European Commission advisor, told US media she did “not make the pagers” and was “just the intermediary.” A government spokesman said in a statement that BAC Consulting has no manufacturing presence in Hungary.

It is worth to note that such an operation owe to have involved various global mobile equipment approval boards and the general GSM databases.And remember that most of these companies that grant global identification are from European countries e.g you will find that of gadgets manufactured in most Asian countries carry an IMEI from BABT(British Approval Board for Telecommunication and we cannot rule out the fact MOSSAD may have had a smooth hand to indirectly extract information that helped it in the planning and execution of this operation.On the various mobile operating system of which there is the popular"Android" which is a google initiated OS,if you have been following this blog then you owe to have read our posts on the relationship between google and the CIA or NSA(US intelligence and domestic security bodies).

2.Icom Incorporated: Osaka-headquartered radio, wireless LAN and SIP solutions maker Icom is the other company widely implicated, via its explosive IC-V82 VHF series of handheld walkie-talkies. The company cannot confirm the shipment of its products to Lebanon, and said the manufacture of this particular transceiver was halted in 2014. Icom assured that it sells its wares only through authorized distributors, and has had problems with counterfeiters using its brand.

3.Lebanese media have reported that other electronic devices also exploded in this week’s carnage, from home solar energy systems and car batteries to electric scooters, fingerprint-reading devices, laptops and smartphones, including iPhones. These reports have yet to be independently verified.

Apple has taken its share of blows to its reputation in recent years from manufacturing faults causing iPhones to randomly catch fire or explode while charging, and scandals related to intelligence agencies using its products to spy on users, but no past publicly reported incidents involving iPhones being deliberately used as makeshift explosive devices.

The breadth and extent of the reported attacks has prompted some observers to suggest that batteries sold by shady third party suppliers may have been involved.

Three Ugandans survive in a military helicopter crash outside Mogadishu

 

....Report on our Desk now......

According  to our confidant sources,this military helicopter crashed outside Mogadishu; all passengers including three Ugandans have survived.

The incident occurred just after 6pm Mogadishu time.

The helicopter flew from Mogadishu and was en route to Ballidogle airbase according to our confidant sources in Mogadishu.

Somali police reached the scene and rescued those on board.

The incident resulted in no deaths, a military official told media, requesting anonymity because he was not authorized to speak with the media.

So far, neither the Somali National Army (SNA) nor the ATMIS have released a statement regarding the incident.

However, sources said all of people on board the helicopter were rescued.

It is unclear whether the crash was caused by a technical issue or a hostile fire.

The helicopter was flying from Mogadishu to Ballidogle airfield, where US forces and Somali army commandos Danab are stationed.

Balidogle is 90 kilometers (55 miles) south-west of Mogadishu.

.....our investigative team will get you any official information if it gets out......

Thank God that all the garrant combatants who were on board have been evacuated  safely.

...For God and My country ...

The Chinese Dongfeng41 ICBM

 

The Dongfeng-41 (CSS-X-20) - or "DF-41" - is an InterContinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) designed, developed, and manufactured by the nation of China and represents the longest-ranged, most lethal ICBM available to the Chinese military's "Rocket Force", representing the latest, most advanced, oversized missile design offering a maximum target range out to 9,320 miles (15,000 kilometers) with modular warhead capability to boot.

The DF-41 began testing in July 2012 with more advanced tests following into late-2014 and throughout 2015-2016. It was debuted to the public in the October 2019 National Day military parade in Central Beijing thereafter.

With a length measuring 72 feet (22 m), the missile's diameter reaches 7.38 feet (2.25 m) and its payload tips the scales at 5,510 miles (2,500 kg) while the missile, as a whole, weighs 176,400lb (80,000 kg). A three-stage, solid propellant propulsion system is used to propel the massive missile into the sky on its one-way trip. Up to ten nuclear warheads can be seated in the missile to maximize the blast radius.

The flexibility in deployment of the missile is such that it be launched from its multi-wheeled, eight-axle mobile carrier, by rail, or from a reinforced underground silo housing. The typical launcher vehicle consists of a heavy-duty sixteen-wheeled military truck with split-cab arrangement. The missile is seated over the entire length of the truck and even extends beyond the bow - such is its size. Prior to firing, the missile is raised in its cradle and made vertical to begin its trajectory.

The Chinese military's rocket force operates the missile in two missile brigades as the DF-41 makes up a critical main component of Chinese nuclear deterrence and missile force strength.

Report any video or photo of this terrorist Ahmed Al-Aqouril

If  anyone sees video of a one-legged terrorist involved in the Mali attacks please flag it off and send to any counter terrorism office,he is among the terrorists who the counter terrorism institutions are still looking for,he is notoriously  known in Libya and a 2012 Benghazi attacker Ahmed al-Aqouri .

Biography: Ahmed al-Aqouri with full name Ahmed Awad al-Ghamari al-Aqouri from Darnah, Libya. Little is known about Ahmed historically; however, he was likely detained prior at the Abu Salim prison in Tripoli, Libya. What we do know is that in 2011 he was free or freed as he fought in the Libyan Revolution. On September 11th, 2012, he attacked the U.S. Consulate in Benghazi. He was a close associate of fellow attacker Mahmoud al-Barassi and joined ISIS in Benghazi with Mahmoud. While ISIS, he fought against the Libyan National Army during the Second Libyan Civil War which lasted from 2014 to 2017. It was during the war when he lost his leg, and he appear to uses crutches at all times. Ahmed is currently based in Mali.

........?..................,..........,,.....................................

Who funded the attack?

One of the terrorists arrested in Bamako revealed that they received a sum of 2 billion CFA francs to carry out their activity. 2 billion distributed to 25-year-old men.

Up to 70 people have been killed in this Bamako terror attack.

Secretariat of UN and French Embassy condemn the recent Bamako terror attack

 Statement attributable to the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General - on Mali [scroll down for French]

Stéphane Dujarric, Spokesman for the Secretary-General

The Secretary-General strongly condemns the terrorist attack in Bamako, Mali, on 17 September. He extends his sincere condolences to the families of the victims as well as to the transitional Government and the people of Mali. He wishes a speedy recovery to those injured, including one UN guard unit member.

 

The Secretary-General calls on the Malian transitional Government to ensure that those responsible for this despicable attack are held to account.

 

***

 

Le Secrétaire général condamne fermement l'attaque terroriste qui a eu lieu à Bamako, au Mali, le 17 septembre. Il présente ses sincères condoléances aux familles des victimes, ainsi qu'au gouvernement de transition et au peuple maliens. Il souhaite un prompt rétablissement aux blessés, dont un membre de l’unité de garde de l’ONU.

 

Le Secrétaire général appelle le gouvernement de transition malien à veiller à ce que les responsables de cette attaque ignoble soient traduits en justice.

Will President Kagame accept to talk with FDLR?One of President Kagame's critiques writes to President Jao Laurenco demanding FDLR and RPF negotiations

To:                   His Excellency Joâo Lourenço                                                                                                                     President of the Republic of Angola, Luanda – Angola

Subject:           Opinions and considerations on the DRC-Rwanda peace process:

                        Kigali must negotiate with the FDLR.

Your Excellency Mr President,

– Considering your status as Mediator of the African Union in the ongoing peace process between DRC and Rwanda;

– Considering your leadership and the invaluable efforts you are making to bring peace between the two brotherly countries and to recreate conditions of collective security throughout the Great Lakes region of Africa and the continent as a whole;

– Considering the significant progress made in the aforementioned peace process since the first ministerial meeting in Luanda on 31 March 2024;

– Considering in particular the resolutions and reciprocal commitments of the two countries, as recorded in the Minutes at the end of the 3rd ministerial meeting of Luanda on 7 and 8 August 2024;

– Considering that the Congolese government has discovered Kigali’s Machiavellian plan to equate the FDLR with all Rwandan refugees in the DRC, with Kinyarwanda-speaking Congolese, and with the Congolese armed forces (FARDC); this prompted Minister Thérèse Wagner to categorically reject any idea of direct negotiation with the M23 and to devalue the operations to combat the FDLR, which had been planned by a committee of military and intelligence experts at the meeting held in Rubavu on 30 August 2024.

– Considering also that no consensus was reached at the Luanda talks on the withdrawal of Rwandan troops (RDF) from Congolese territory, as had been hoped for by the international community and the people of eastern DRC, who are seriously suffering the effects of this war; Rwanda, for its part, has decided to maintain its firm position, continuing its murderous actions against Congolese civilians and continuing to plunder the natural resources of the DRC. The wars initiated by Kagame in the DRC since 1996 have already cost the lives of more than 15 million people in the DRC;

– Given the instrumentalisation of the Rwandan tragedy, the current situation of the Rwandan people in the grip of a brutal and criminal dictatorship and the immeasurable tragedy being experienced by the peoples of the Great Lakes sub-region of Africa as a result of the incessant wars imposed by Kigali for the benefit of the imperialist networks and powers determined to get their hands on the natural wealth of the African continent;

– Driven by the ideal of the right to peace for the peoples of Africa ;

We, the Rwandan Movement for the Republic and Democracy (MRD), a political platform committed and determined to eradicate all forms of injustice, oppression and inhumanity characteristic of the oppressive RPF regime headed by Paul Kagame, have the great honour of coming to your eminent personality to submit to you, by way of contribution to the search for a rediscovered and lasting peace between the DRC and Rwanda, the following Opinions and Considerations:

1. The Congolese government’s current about-turn is far from surprising. Indeed, given that the war is taking place on Congolese soil, with all that this implies in terms of suffering inflicted on the civilian population, Kinshasa has every right to be doubly vigilant about the content of the reciprocal commitments and the chances of success.  Kinshasa has every right to be doubly vigilant as to the content of the reciprocal commitments and the real chances of their fulfilment;

2. Recent experience of the negotiations between the two parties, involving the Rwandan and Congolese governments, shows beyond doubt that the RPF-Inkotanyi regime in power in Rwanda has always shown a notorious lack of good faith, which is reflected, in particular, in its disrespect for international rules and principles and commitments made on the international stage.

3. There remains a glaring imbalance between the commitments of the two parties. While the Congolese side had undertaken to negotiate with the M23 and to dismantle the FDLR, the Rwandan side had not committed itself to anything concrete, having never officially admitted that it had committed troops to the fighting in the DRC, despite all the reliable reports showing this interference, with photos to back them up. How can we say that we are going to withdraw troops whose involvement on the ground we persist in denying?

4. Your responsibility as Mediator of the African Union is enormous, Your Excellency, since all the eyes and prayers of the peoples of the two countries and of the sub-region are turned towards You. In any case, in order to restore the confidence of the Congolese side, which is currently calling the whole process into question, we need more commitment and good faith from the Rwandan side.

That is why, for the sake of stability and lasting peace in the Great Lakes sub-region of Africa, we propose the following considerations:

a) to demand that Kigali unconditionally withdraw its troops from Congolese soil;

b) demand that Kigali canton the M23 fighters with a view to their disarmament and repatriation;

c) to demand that Kigali open direct negotiations with the FDLR. To this end, our Movement is prepared to play the role of Facilitator between you and the FDLR on the one hand, and between the Rwandan Government and the FDLR on the other;

d) demand that Kinshasa clarify its reasons for rejecting the process.

In the expectation of a wise response to this letter, please accept, Your Excellency, the expression of our highest consideration.

Washington DC, 18th  September 2024

Mrs Christine COLEMAN, President of the MRD

Copy for information :

– President of the DRC

– President of Tanzania

– President of Burundi

– President of South Africa

– President of Malawi

d) 

Bi-Weekly Counter-Terrorism Intelligence Brief for East and Central Africa (Somalia, Mozambique, and DR-Congo): Tracking Islamic State Terrorists for the period of 1st September- 15th September 2024

Executive Summary

In East and Central Africa, between September 1st and 15th, 2024, the Islamic State (IS) and its affiliated groups continued to escalate violence and expand their operations in Mozambique and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

Mozambique: Islamic State-Mozambique (ISM) increased its activities in the Cabo Delgado region, targeting both civilians and military forces. Notable incidents included attacks in Muidumbe and Mocimboa da Praia districts, with indications of possible expansion into neighboring Malawi. The recruitment of vulnerable youth in Malawi has raised concerns about regional security. ISM’s use of ambushes and hit-and-run tactics suggests adaptability, complicating efforts by Mozambican and Rwandan forces to stabilize the region.

DR Congo: Islamic State Central Africa Province (ISCAP) intensified its attacks in Ituri province. Civilians and military forces were targeted in multiple armed assaults, resulting in numerous casualties. The joint efforts between Congolese and Ugandan forces showed some success in neutralizing ISCAP members, but the insurgents’ ability to terrorize local populations remains a significant threat. The situation has led to growing calls for international intervention due to the deteriorating humanitarian conditions in the region.

MOZAMBIQUE

• 11th Sep- Islamic State (IS) insiders reportedly referenced expansion into Malawi after national intelligence services uncovered youth recruitment.
• 10th Sep- ISM led an armed attack against civilians in Negure area of Muidumbe district.
• 05th Sep- a Mozambican military patrol was ambushed and attacked by ISM terrorist in Mocimboa da Praia.
• 04th Sep- ISM conducted an armed attacked against the civilian populace in Negure are in Muidumbe district.
• 01st Sep- several civilians were injured after ISM mounted an armed assault against the population in Chiure in Chiure district.
• 01st Sep- ISM terrorists led an armed assault against Mozambican Army troop in Bugi in Cabo Delgado.

THE DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF CONGO (DRC)

• 11TH Sep- ISCAP militants attacked several villages on the RN4 road near Biakato area IN Ituri province. The villages include Kombokombo, Badulingi and Bamedi.
• 10th Sep- ISCAP militants led an armed attack against civilians on the RN4 in Bandembesi, Ituri. At least three people were killed and several others injured.
• 07th Sep- ISCAP militants captured and execute two Christians in Idohu area in Ituri.
• 04th Sep- Joint efforts between Congolese and Ugandan troops left four ISCAP jihadists neutralized and 9 of their hostages freed, including two of Ugandan nationality.
• 04th Sep- ISCAP terrorists conducted an armed attack against civilians Near Biakato in Ntabiya region in Ituri province.
• 04th Sep- ISCAP terrorists led and armed assaults on civilians near Mamove are in Ituri province.
• 02nd Sep- ISAP militants led an armed assault on Congolese Military vehicle in Bandilika, Ituri Province. At least one civilian and one soldier were killed in the attack.
• 01st Sep- Joint efforts by FARDC supported by the Ugandan army (UPDF) destroyed one of the strongholds of ISCAP terrorists east of Makumo and Biakato, in the Babila-Babombi chiefdom, Mambasa territory, Ituri province. 3 jihadists killed, two computers, a grenade and an AK47 type weapon recovered by the army. It was revealed that these computers served these rebels in connecting to the ISCAP and EI (Individual Enterprise) networks.

ANALYSIS

Mozambique

Malawi’s National Intelligence Service (NIS) recently uncovered a youth recruitment scheme linked to insiders expanding their influence in the country, raising serious security concerns. This discovery comes amid growing regional instability, particularly as neighboring Mozambique grapples with the spread of Islamic State (IS)-aligned insurgents in its northern Cabo Delgado province. The possibility of this recruitment effort being connected to the Islamic State’s broader operations in Southern Africa cannot be overlooked.

The Islamic State in Mozambique (ISIS-M) has been actively recruiting vulnerable youth, leveraging poverty, unemployment, and disillusionment to expand its ranks. As the insurgency in Mozambique continues to destabilize the region, it is likely that IS operatives are seeking to expand beyond Mozambique’s borders into neighboring countries like Malawi. The recruitment of Malawian youth could be part of a wider strategy to establish a foothold and bolster militant forces in the region.These recruitment networks, often masked by community groups or social media campaigns, target young people who are struggling with economic hardships, making them easy prey for extremist ideologies. The discovery of this scheme by the NIS suggests that Malawi, like Mozambique, could become a new target for IS expansion, further exacerbating regional insecurity.

Insurgent activity in Mocímboa da Praia signals a renewed threat in areas thought to be stabilized by Rwandan forces, revealing difficulties in fully securing the region. Islamic State-linked fighters are employing both violence and media propaganda, using attacks to project strength and maintain influence. Targeting key infrastructure like the N380 highway disrupts military and civilian movements, indicating a strategy to weaken government control. Despite recent successes, Rwandan forces remain vulnerable to insurgent ambushes, showing gaps in intelligence and operational awareness. The insurgents’ use of hit-and-run tactics and IEDs highlights their adaptability in avoiding direct confrontations. Rising violence has forced the reduction of UN operations, intensifying the already dire humanitarian crisis in the region.

The increased attacks by ISCAP (Islamic State Central Africa Province) in North Kivu and Ituri highlight the growing threat of extremist violence in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. Over the last two months, the group’s brutal tactics, including mass killings, arson, and property destruction, have terrorized civilian populations, with the toll exceeding 500 deaths. This surge of violence, despite the state of siege, exposes the limited capacity of the Congolese government and its military forces to counter ISCAP’s insurgency effectively. Human rights organizations have asked for these regions to be declared disaster areas underscores the severity of the humanitarian crisis, while their appeal to the international community to act against what they term a “genocide” points to growing frustrations over perceived international neglect and the failure of peacekeeping initiatives. The local demands for tax relief and stronger military action reflect the community’s desperation for both immediate and long-term solutions to this enduring conflict.

INSIGHTS AND CONCLUSION

In Mozambique, the Islamic State-Mozambique (ISM) has expanded its activities beyond its traditional strongholds in Cabo Delgado, targeting both civilians and military forces. Notable incidents include repeated attacks in Muidumbe and Mocimboa da Praia districts, with a strategic shift towards destabilizing neighboring Malawi through youth recruitment. This suggests a broader, more regional approach by ISM, aimed at reinforcing its influence and operational capacity across borders. The group’s use of ambushes and IEDs indicates a sophisticated understanding of local dynamics and a deliberate effort to challenge stabilization efforts by Mozambican and Rwandan forces. The intensifying violence has led to a reduction in UN operations, worsening the humanitarian crisis and disrupting key infrastructure.

In the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the Islamic State Central Africa Province (ISCAP) has intensified its brutal campaign in Ituri province. The group’s recent attacks, including mass killings and assaults on civilians and military personnel, highlight the severity of the insurgency and the challenges facing Congolese and Ugandan forces. Despite some successes in neutralizing ISCAP members and disrupting their operations, the group’s ability to execute coordinated and lethal attacks reveals significant gaps in counter-insurgency efforts. The ongoing violence has led to severe humanitarian conditions, with calls from human rights organizations for international intervention and disaster area declarations. The local population’s demand for stronger military action and relief measures reflects the urgent need for a comprehensive response to the escalating crisis.

Overall, the period underscores the critical need for enhanced regional and international strategies to counter IS-affiliated groups and address the deepening humanitarian crises in Mozambique and the DRC

Rwandan army shoots another DRC soldier

 Rwanda, the RDF, Kigali's army, continues its provocation, even near the tourist city of Goma, one of the largest in the east of the country. Despite calls for a ceasefire, the Rwandan army continues to display its excessive ambitions.

A soldier of the Armed Forces of the DRC was killed on the night of Tuesday to Wednesday, September 18, 2024 by Rwandan soldiers near border pillar 12, in the village of Buswaga, located in the Buvira group, in the Bukumu chiefdom, in the Nyiragongo territory, north of Goma. According to civil society sources, there was concern on both sides after the incident.

The information is confirmed by the spokesman for the army in North Kivu. Accordingly ,Lieutenant-Colonel Ndjike Kaiko Guillaume promises to give the position of the FARDC in the coming hours.

However, an independent source points out that a significant portion of the Congolese army has been reinforced in the Nyiragongo territory.

Author,Charles Onana accused of denying Tutsi genocide

 

According to the news outlet, Monde Afrique, the International Federation of Human Rights Leagues, the Survie-France association, the Human Rights League, the Rwandan Community of France , the Collective of Civil Parties, have filed a complaint, with constitution of civil party, against the political scientist and writer Charles Onana accused of "denial of the crime of genocide of Tutsi ".

There has been heated debates over all forms of media from Kigali on the authors publication.Many citing that his books are meant to denial the Tutsi genocide.

The trial will take place before the criminal court of Paris on October 7, 8, 10 and 11. The complaint targets the resounding book by published in 2019 by Éditions de l'Artilleur entitled Rwanda, la vérité sur l'opération Turquoise , a work prefaced by Colonel Luc Marchal, commander of the blue helmets of the UN in 1994 in Rwanda .

Colonel Marchal, who was in charge of security in the town of Kigali in 1994 and who experienced Rwanda's descent into hell first-hand, will be at the court to defend Mr. Onana Charles.

The situation from the 4th ministerial meeting on Rwanda and DRC conflict

The 4th ministerial meeting between the Democratic Republic of Congo and the Republic of Rwanda, under the mediation of the Republic of Angola. 

⏹️The ministers of RDC- Rwanda have been informed of the results of the meeting between the Facilitation and the delegation of AFC/M23, devoted mainly to their adherence to the cease-fire in force since August 4, 2024. 
⏹️ The meeting reviewed and approved the minutes of the ministerial session of August 20 and 21, 2024, and also reviewed the report of the intelligence experts meeting of August 29 and 30, 2024 in Rubavu, Rwanda, the emphasis on the harmonized plan for the neutralization of the FDLR and the disengagement of forces/the lifting of defensive measures by Rwanda.

NYIRAGONGO: VIOLENT Clashes between the FARDC and the M23 rebels in the PNVI on September 14

 

Violent clashes broke out on Saturday, September 14 in the afternoon between the armed forces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (FARDC) and the rebels of the M23 group in the depth of the National Park of Volcanoes (PNVi), along the 'axe Kanyabuki. According to the Civil Society of Nyiragongo Territory, which alerted on the situation, the M23-AFC rebels tried to penetrate a position of the government forces. "The forces of M23, who are used to these attempts, were quickly repelled and are now pursued without repetition. Ils n'osent plus s'aventurer davantage", declared a representative of the Civil Society.

The Civil Society also called on the population to support the FARDC as well as the Volunteers for the Defense of the Fatherland (VDP), who, according to it, are giving their blood for the defense of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. "We urge the population to continue to support the armed forces and the VDP in this crucial struggle for peace and security," she added. The Civil Society also requested the continuation of the offensive against the M23 rebels. These fightings occur a week after similar violent confrontations in the region, illustrating the persistence of the security crisis in the east of the DRC.

As Rwanda demands the expulsion of FDLR from DRC,the leaders of FDLR and FLN are rumoured to be holding a meeting in Burundi

According to whispers from Bujumbura,There are rumours around the city that the rebel leaders ,Lt Gen Hamada Habimana who is considered to be the supreme commander of the FLN forces, Gen Ntawunguka Pacifique who is the head of the FDLR army, Brig Gen Antoine Hakizimana who is the head of the FLN army and Col Honore Hategekimana Theophile also from the FLN are holding a grand meeting in Burundi.Meanwhile ,the DRC is demamding Rwanda to first withdraw its army from DRC soil for it to also respond to Rwandan demand of chasing a way the FDLR.Rwanda has declined to behave to the demands of DRC.

Hanwha Defence, a major South Korean defense contractor, and an army infantry division have begun testing a new six-wheeled, 2-ton Multi-Purpose Unmanned Ground Vehicle (M-UGV).

 

This vehicle, which can carry up to 500 kilograms (1,102 pounds) of cargo and travel over 100 kilometers (62.1 miles) on a single charge, was first unveiled in July 2021.

The M-UGV, also known as the intelligence UGV (I-UGV), can be controlled remotely or operate autonomously. Its roles include surveillance, logistics transport, casualty evacuation, and combat support. The vehicle features airless tires and a low profile, ideal for its reconnaissance and surveillance missions. It is equipped with a Remote-Controlled Weapon System (RCWS) that uses artificial intelligence to detect and return fire in the direction of incoming gunfire.

The field demonstration, which began on October 8, will test various functions such as remote control, GPS-based autonomous driving, and the RCWS. If communication with the control tower is lost, the I-UGV will attempt to reconnect; if unsuccessful, it will return to its starting location independently.

ADF receiving reinforcements and their freqjuentattacks have led to massive displacements in Lubero

 

According to HUMINT(human intelligence) reports the ADF threat pushes entire villages to empty of their inhabitants in Lubero and since Wednesday September 11, 2024, several localities in the Bapakombe group, located in the Bapere sector, in Lubero territory (North Kivu), have been deserted by their populations. This massive displacement is observed in particular in the villages of Bilulu, Lubumbashi, Mabilima, Loya, Hoho and Makumo, which are also located on the border of the territory of Mambasa, in Ituri.

This wave of displacement follows a new attack by rebels from the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), which occurred in the village of Bukoka, located just two hours' walk from the territorial limit between Lubero and Mambasa. Fearing for their safety, civilians fled towards Kambau, the capital of the Bapakombe grouping. This town, already marked by bloody massacres perpetrated by the same terrorists, nevertheless represents their last refuge.

The provincial deputy and former customary chief of the Bapere sector, Mwami Bongombi Faïsi Enock, sounded the alarm. According to him, the ADF rebels appear to be receiving reinforcements from their fighters who have been operating since June 12, 2024 in this area. Even more worrying, he claims that these terrorist groups circulate freely in the region and go so far as to organize football matches with their hostages in the village of Bododhea, under the helpless gaze of the security forces.

Mwami Bongombi strongly calls on the national authorities to take urgent measures to restore security in this region.

Victims of Kony's insurgence demand repatriation of 60 Congolese from Gulu refugee transit camp

  The association of victims of the atrocities of the Kony Lord's resistance army (LRA) and the civil society of the Congolese people are pleading for the repatriation of sixty (60) Congolese stranded in the neighboring Republic of Uganda.

They made this known in a declaration read this Thursday, September 12, 2024, before the administrator of the territory of Dungu in the province of Haut-Uele

According to them, these compatriots who were kidnapped during the massacres called "Christmas" by LRA rebels in the provinces of Haut-Uele and Bas-Uele, in the former Orientale in 2008, live in inhumane conditions. in the Gulu transit site in Uganda, while they await repatriation to the DRC.

Akotama Moïse, secretary of this association who affirms that the contract of the NGO which took care of the repatriation of these Congolese is nearing its end, asks the government to invest in the return of these Congolese and that compensation be made for these victims.

“Based on the information in our possession, the NGO Action for Rural Promotion which led this LRA DDRR process from the CAR to Uganda with funding from PAX, whose contract will end on September 25, 2024, wants to leave Uganda without having repatriated our brothers and sisters to the country and this NGO and its partners want to force our brothers to stay in Uganda without their consent", according to their statement.

Recall that in July 2023, the Central African and Ugandan governments, with the support of MINUSCA, voluntarily repatriated around sixty ex-LRA combatants and their families to the city of Entebbe in Uganda. These families had lived in the CAR for around ten years..

Rwanda's Mi-17 and Mi-35M multirole combat helicopter

Mi35

Mi17

Two Mi-17 transport helicopters and two Mi-35M attack helicopters belonging to the Rwandan Air Force were seen flying over Amahoro Stadium in the capital Kigali on Sunday 11 August for the inauguration of President Paul Kagame, who was sworn in for his fourth term. They were subsequently seen on at least one other occassion.

According to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute’s (SIPRI’s) arms transfers database, Rwanda ordered four Mi-35Ms in 2019. These were spotted at Rostvertol in 2021 and delivered in 2022. Rwanda previously acquired six Mi-17s from Russia in 2014/2015.

Compared to the earlier Mi-24, the upgraded Mi-35M is far more capable. It features several improvements over its predecessors, such as new avionics with multifunction colour displays, more powerful Klimov VK-2500 turboshaft engines developing 2 200 shp, fibreglass main rotor blades, main rotor head with elastomeric joints, a new swashplate and X-type tail rotor. The Mi-35M’s fuselage has shortened stub wings and fixed landing gear. The helicopter’s sighting system has a thermal imager, TV camera and laser rangefinder and designator.

According to Russian Helicopters, weapons include Ataka-V or Shturm-V ant-tank missiles and Igla-V air-to-air missiles, 80 or 122 mm rockets and a GSh-231 23-mm twin-barrel cannon. In addition to weapons, the Mi-35M can carry up to eight personnel in its cabin or cargo weighing 1 500 kg while up to 2 400 kg can be carried on an external sling.

The helicopter’s self-protection suite includes a radar warning receiver, chaff & flare dispenser, infrared jammer and engine exhaust suppressor.

The new acquisitions bring the Rwandan military’s rotary wing fleet to 24 Mi-17s, seven Mi-24s and four Mi-35s. The Rwandan government also flies a single A109 and a single AW139 helicopter as well as a G550 business jet.

Some of Rwanda’s Mi-17s have been deployed with the United Nations in South Sudan (one crashed there in March 2019).

The only other aircraft in the Rwandan Air Force’s fleet are Cessna 208 Grand Caravan fixed wing aircraft – two were acquired from the United States in 2021. These were supplied through grand aid funding, with the US government providing 14 Grand Caravan EX aircraft to several countries in Africa, including Tunisia and Djibouti. ATI Engineering in 2020 was contracted to convert the two Grand Caravans for the Rwanda Defence Force under the US military’s African Partnership Flight initiative. They were fitted with secure HF and UHF radios, Night Vision Imaging System (NVIS) interior and exterior lighting, and a reconfigurable multi-mission interior featuring two ambulatory medical stretcher kits, 11 passenger seats, eight collapsible utility seats and a removable rollerball cargo floor.

Other relatively recent acquisitions by Rwanda, according to SIPRI, include three SH-1 122mm self-propelled guns from China (2018), 50 Red Arrow-9 anti-tank missiles from China in 2017/18, two RM-70 122 mm self-propelled guns from Slovakia (2019), 76 Cobra APCs from Turkey (2012-2017), and 53 Cobra 2 APCs from Turkey in 2021.

The Mi-35M Attack helicopter is operated by multiple countries including Russia, Nigeria, Mali, Pakistan, and Kazakhstan.

Mi-35M is a multi-role combat helicopter manufactured by Rostvertol, a subsidiary of Russian Helicopters. It is an export variant of Mi-24 Hind attack helicopter.

Primarily designed for attack and military transport missions, the helicopter offers a superior flight performance and manoeuvrability compared to its predecessor.

The production of Mi-35M started in 2005. The aircraft integrates modern, high-precision weaponry for destroying ground-based armoured targets and providing air support for ground missions. It can be modified as an attack, ground assault, medical evacuation (MEDEVAC) or transport platform.

Mi-35M is one of the modern combat helicopters in the Russian Air Force inventory. It is also operated by the armed forces of many countries including Venezuela, Azerbaijan, Nigeria, Kazakhstan, and Mali.

The helicopter was displayed at the Army-2021 international military and technical forum in Moscow, Russia, in August 2021.

MI-35M features

Based on the Mi-24 Hind, Mi-35M military helicopter incorporates several improvements, including shortened stub wings, a new rotor system, modern avionics, upgraded turboshaft engines and a hydraulic system. The cockpit and vital components of the helicopter are heavily armoured.

The helicopter has an overall length of 21.6m, wingspan of 6.5m, and height of 6.5m. Its take-off weight in ferry configuration is 12,000kg. It can carry eight troops or a payload of 2,400kg.

Mi-35M military helicopter cockpit and avionics

The glass cockpit of the Mi-35M accommodates two pilots in tandem configuration. The night vision goggle (NVG)-compatible cockpit integrates multi-functional displays (MFDs), redundant flight controls, and state-of-the-art avionics.

The helicopter is equipped with an OPS-24N surveillance-and-sighting station, a television channel, a GPS-guided navigation system, and an optional non-Russian radio station.

Hind E armament

The chin-mounted turret can be installed with the twin-barrel GSh-23V 23mm cannon with 450 to 470 rounds of ammunition. The gun can fire 3,400 to 3,600 rounds a minute. The stub wings can carry a range of weapon systems, including anti-tank missiles, rocket pods/gun pods or fuel tanks.

The military helicopter can be armed with up to eight 9М114 or 9M120 Ataka-V SACLOS radio-guided anti-tank missiles, up to 80 ‘S-8’ 80mm unguided rockets, and 20 ‘S-13’ type 122mm unguided aircraft rockets.

Countermeasures of Mi-35M

The countermeasures suite of Mi-35M includes a radar warning receiver, a laser range finder and a location finder, chaff and flare launch system, infrared (IR) jamming system, and engine-exhaust IR suppressor.

Mi-35M helicopter engines and performance

The military helicopter is powered by two ТVЗ-117VМА or VK-2500 engines. Each engine develops a maximum power output of 2,200hp. The engines are designed to support high-altitude missions.

The helicopter can fly at a maximum speed of 305km/h. Its operational altitude is 5,400m. The helicopter has a normal range of 460km and can reach a maximum distance of 1,000km with full fuel load.

It can be deployed in combat missions in different geographies with high-temperature and high-altitude environments and features round-the-clock combat capabilities for conducting missions during day and night. It is also capable of operating from unprepared and poorly equipped airfields.

Mi-35M orders and deliveries

In 2005, Venezuela signed two contracts with Rosoboronexport for eight Mi-35M helicopters. The helicopters that were delivered to Venezuela were fitted with VK-2500 engines for high-altitude operations.

The Brazilian Air Force (FAB) signed a $150m contract with Rosoboronexport for 12 Mi-35M helicopters in November 2008. The helicopters were manufactured by Rostvertol at its facility in Rostov-on-Don. The first three helicopters were delivered in December 2009.

The Brazilian Air Force started operating three Mi-35M helicopters in April 2010. The helicopters in FAB service are referred to as AH-2 Sabre. Nine helicopters were delivered by August 2012. The final helicopter was delivered in December 2014.

However, in February 2022, the Brazilian Air Force withdrew the entire fleet of Mi-35M from operations, citing high operating costs, inconvenient logistics and inadequate manufacturer support.

Azerbaijan signed a contract with Rosoboronexport for the delivery of 24 Mi-35M helicopters in September 2010. By 2012, 12 helicopters were delivered and the rest were delivered in November 2013.

The Iraqi Ministry of Defence received the first delivery of four Mi-35M helicopters in November 2013. Four helicopters were delivered in July 2014 and the rest were delivered in October 2014.

Nigeria ordered 12 Mi-35M combat helicopters in 2015. The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) received two helicopters in December 2016, while two more helicopters were delivered in April 2018. Nigeria ordered additional 12 helicopters in October 2019.

Pakistan signed an agreement to purchase four Mi-35M helicopters from Russia in 2015. The helicopters were delivered in 2018.

Rosoboronexport signed a contract with Kazakhstan for the supply of four helicopters in January 2017. Kazakhstan ordered four additional Mi-35M helicopters in May 2018. It received a batch of four helicopters in June 2020.

The Republic of Mali received two helicopters from Rosoboronexport in October 2017.

Russia and Uzbekistan signed a contract for the delivery of 12 Mi-35M helicopters in March 2018. Uzbekistan received the first helicopter in 2021.

Belarus signed a contract for four Mi-35M helicopters at the Army-2020 international military and technical forum in Russia in August 2020.

The Mi-35M Attack helicopter is operated by multiple countries including Russia, Nigeria, Mali, Pakistan, and Kazakhstan and Rwanda now.

Over view and specifications!

Mi-35M is a multi-role combat helicopter manufactured by Rostvertol, a subsidiary of Russian Helicopters. It is an export variant of Mi-24 Hind attack helicopter.

Primarily designed for attack and military transport missions, the helicopter offers a superior flight performance and manoeuvrability compared to its predecessor.

Mi-35M is one of the modern combat helicopters in the Russian Air Force inventory. It is also operated by the armed forces of many countries including Venezuela, Azerbaijan, Nigeria, Kazakhstan, and Mali.

The helicopter was displayed at the Army-2021 international military and technical forum in Moscow, Russia, in August 2021.

MI-35M features

Based on the Mi-24 Hind, Mi-35M military helicopter incorporates several improvements, including shortened stub wings, a new rotor system, modern avionics, upgraded turboshaft engines and a hydraulic system. The cockpit and vital components of the helicopter are heavily armoured.

The helicopter has an overall length of 21.6m, wingspan of 6.5m, and height of 6.5m. Its take-off weight in ferry configuration is 12,000kg. It can carry eight troops or a payload of 2,400kg.

Mi-35M military helicopter cockpit and avionics

The glass cockpit of the Mi-35M accommodates two pilots in tandem configuration. The night vision goggle (NVG)-compatible cockpit integrates multi-functional displays (MFDs), redundant flight controls, and state-of-the-art avionics.

The helicopter is equipped with an OPS-24N surveillance-and-sighting station, a television channel, a GPS-guided navigation system, and an optional non-Russian radio station.

Hind E armament

The chin-mounted turret can be installed with the twin-barrel GSh-23V 23mm cannon with 450 to 470 rounds of ammunition. The gun can fire 3,400 to 3,600 rounds a minute. The stub wings can carry a range of weapon systems, including anti-tank missiles, rocket pods/gun pods or fuel tanks.

The military helicopter can be armed with up to eight 9М114 or 9M120 Ataka-V SACLOS radio-guided anti-tank missiles, up to 80 ‘S-8’ 80mm unguided rockets, and 20 ‘S-13’ type 122mm unguided aircraft rockets.

Countermeasures of Mi-35M

The countermeasures suite of Mi-35M includes a radar warning receiver, a laser range finder and a location finder, chaff and flare launch system, infrared (IR) jamming system, and engine-exhaust IR suppressor.

Mi-35M helicopter engines and performance

The military helicopter is powered by two ТVЗ-117VМА or VK-2500 engines. Each engine develops a maximum power output of 2,200hp. The engines are designed to support high-altitude missions.

The helicopter can fly at a maximum speed of 305km/h. Its operational altitude is 5,400m. The helicopter has a normal range of 460km and can reach a maximum distance of 1,000km with full fuel load.

It can be deployed in combat missions in different geographies with high-temperature and high-altitude environments and features round-the-clock combat capabilities for conducting missions during day and night. It is also capable of operating from unprepared and poorly equipped airfields.

Mi-35M orders and deliveries

In 2005, Venezuela signed two contracts with Rosoboronexport for eight Mi-35M helicopters. The helicopters that were delivered to Venezuela were fitted with VK-2500 engines for high-altitude operations.

The Brazilian Air Force (FAB) signed a $150m contract with Rosoboronexport for 12 Mi-35M helicopters in November 2008. The helicopters were manufactured by Rostvertol at its facility in Rostov-on-Don. The first three helicopters were delivered in December 2009.

The Brazilian Air Force started operating three Mi-35M helicopters in April 2010. The helicopters in FAB service are referred to as AH-2 Sabre. Nine helicopters were delivered by August 2012. The final helicopter was delivered in December 2014.

However, in February 2022, the Brazilian Air Force withdrew the entire fleet of Mi-35M from operations, citing high operating costs, inconvenient logistics and inadequate manufacturer support.

Azerbaijan signed a contract with Rosoboronexport for the delivery of 24 Mi-35M helicopters in September 2010. By 2012, 12 helicopters were delivered and the rest were delivered in November 2013.

The Iraqi Ministry of Defence received the first delivery of four Mi-35M helicopters in November 2013. Four helicopters were delivered in July 2014 and the rest were delivered in October 2014.Iraq also operates up to 40 Mi-17.

It operates a fleet of around 30 to 40 Russian Mi-17 [known to NATO as “Hip”] helicopters, acquired over multiple phases. The first installment of Mi-17s arrived in the early 2000s, soon after the U.S.-led invasion of Iraq. 

 However,On September 5, 2024, Iraq signed a landmark deal with Airbus to acquire 12 new H225M helicopters, alongside two refurbished units. These versatile helicopters are set to join the Iraqi Army Aviation Command, stepping in to replace the aging Mi-17 helicopters. The reasons for this replace;

The move to replace the Mi-17 fleet with French Airbus H225M helicopters comes down to several key factors. Chief among them is the difficulty in obtaining spare parts for the Russian helicopters, a problem exacerbated by geopolitical tensions and sanctions. 

Moreover, the Mi-17s, although highly effective in past missions, are now seen as technically outdated compared to newer, more advanced helicopters like the H225M. The French helicopters boast superior avionics, greater payload capacity, and a broader range of mission capabilities, from search and rescue to combat support and special operations.

By shifting to the H225M, Iraq aims to modernize its military aviation capabilities while reducing its dependency on Russian military technology. The Airbus helicopters are not only more versatile but are also better suited to meet Iraq’s current security needs thanks to their broad mission capabilities. 

Moreover, the H225M benefits from European suppliers, ensuring more reliable access to parts and service contracts. This translates to higher operational readiness without the supply chain disruptions often seen with the Mi-17 fleet. 

Nigeria ordered 12 Mi-35M combat helicopters in 2015. The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) received two helicopters in December 2016, while two more helicopters were delivered in April 2018. Nigeria ordered additional 12 helicopters in October 2019.

Pakistan signed an agreement to purchase four Mi-35M helicopters from Russia in 2015. The helicopters were delivered in 2018.

Rosoboronexport signed a contract with Kazakhstan for the supply of four helicopters in January 2017. Kazakhstan ordered four additional Mi-35M helicopters in May 2018. It received a batch of four helicopters in June 2020.

The Republic of Mali received two helicopters from Rosoboronexport in October 2017.

Russia and Uzbekistan signed a contract for the delivery of 12 Mi-35M helicopters in March 2018. Uzbekistan received the first helicopter in 2021.

Belarus signed a contract for four Mi-35M helicopters at the Army-2020 international military and technical forum in Russia in August 2020.