DRC acquires the AKASH NG multifunctional radar system.

 

 DRC recently acquired the AKash NG multifunction radar system (MFR) from the Indian company Bharat Electronics Limited

The Democratic Republic of Congo has established a partnership with the Indian company BEL. 

The Akash NG is a very advanced air defense radar system, capable of shooting down all enemy flying objects at high altitude.

The Akash (sky) is an all-weather medium-range surface-to-air missile (SAM) system developed as part of the Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme (IGMDP). 

The Akash (sky) is an all-weather medium-range surface-to-air missile (SAM) system developed as part of the Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme (IGMDP). 

The Akash (sky) is an all-weather medium-range surface-to-air missile (SAM) system developed in India. It provides multidirectional and multitarget area defence.

The missile system was indigenously developed as part of the integrated guided-missile development programme (IGMDP) to replace the Russian 2K12 Kub (SA-6 Gainful) missile system.

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) of India developed and integrated the Akash SAM, in partnership with public and private companies.

The Akash SAM system – including the associated radars, missile and systems – took 20 years to develop, with an investment of $120m.

Other countries that have developed multitarget handling surface-to-air missile systems are the US, some EU countries, Russia, Israel and Japan.

DRDO is currently developing the Akash-NG (New Generation), an enhanced version of Akash SAM. A successful flight test of the Akash-NG missile was conducted at the Integrated Test Range (ITR) in Chandipur, Odisha in January 2024.

The missile intercepted and destroyed a high-speed, low-altitude unmanned aerial target during the test flight. The successful completion of the flight test has laid the groundwork for subsequent user trials.

Akash SAM system features

The Akash missile is 5.8m long, has a diameter of 350mm and a wingspan of 1,105mm. It has a launch weight of 720kg.

The missile can fly at a speed of up to Mach 2.5 and has a height ceiling of 18km. The 60kg payload can use prefabricated tungsten alloy cube warheads or a nuclear warhead.

The Akash SAM system consists of an integral ramjet propulsion, a switchable guidance antenna system, a command guidance unit, an onboard power supply, a system arming and detonation mechanism, digital autopilot, radars and C4I centres.

The most important element of the Akash SAM system battery is its high-power, multi-function Rajendra phased array radar.

The 3D passive electronically scanned array Rajendra radar (PESA) can electronically scan and guide the missile towards targets. It provides information on the range, azimuth and height of a flying target.

Akash SAM development timeline and tests

Development of the Akash missile system began in the 1980s, involving the work of 300 public and private companies.

In operation from 1983 to 2007, the programme developed a range of missiles, including the Nag, Agni and Trishul missiles and the Prithvi ballistic missile.

The flight tests were initiated in 1990 and the development flights continued till 1997. Several user trials of the missile system were conducted and its ballistic missile role was proven successful.

In 2008, the Indian Air Force (IAF) introduced its indigenous SAM system after nine successful field trials. Some modifications to the Akash SAM, such as the launch platform, were made to the army version to meet mobility and gradeability requirements.

Akash missile launch details

The Akash missile can be launched from static or mobile platforms, such as battle tanks, providing flexible deployment. The SAM can handle multitarget and destroy manoeuvring targets such as unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV), fighter aircraft, cruise missiles and missiles launched from helicopters.

The Akash SAM system defends vulnerable areas in all weather conditions against medium-range air targets from being attacked from low, medium and high altitudes.

It can operate autonomously and engage and neutralise different aerial targets simultaneously. The kill probability of the Akash is 88% for the first and 99% for the second missile on a target.

The Akash SAM is claimed to be more economical and accurate than the MIM-104 Patriot, operated by several nations including the US, due to its solid-fuel technology. The Akash can intercept from a range of 30km and provide air defence missile coverage of 2,000km².

Rajendra radars and PESA antenna array

The Akash battery has four Rajendra radars and four launchers interlinked together and controlled by the group control centre. Each launcher, equipped with three missiles, is controlled by one radar that can track 16 targets.

The Rajendra radar can track 64 targets and simultaneously guide 12 Akash missiles. The PESA antenna array has a swivel of 360° on a rotating platform. The Rajendra radar can detect up to a radius of 80km and engage at a range of 60km at an altitude of 8km.

The communication links, command and control nodes, sensors and self-propelled launchers of the entire Akash SAM system are IT-integrated. The weapons system uses radar vehicles and T-72 tank chassis for launchers.

Detonation sequence and mechanism

The prefragmented warhead of the Akash missile is coupled with a digital proximity fuse. The detonation sequence is controlled by safety arming and a detonation mechanism. The missile is also integrated with a self-destructive device. Unlike the Patriot missile, Akash uses a ramjet propulsion system which gives it thrust to intercept the target at supersonic speed without any speed deceleration.

The terminal guidance system of the missile enables its working through electronic countermeasures.

The Rajendra radar alone guides the Akash missile, which increases its efficacy against electronic jamming of aircraft.

Akash-NG (new generation) missile

Akash-NG is an advanced missile system capable of neutralising high-velocity, agile aerial threats.

In July 2021, the Akash-NG missile was successfully tested in a flight test conducted in Chandipur. The missile successfully intercepted a high-speed unmanned aerial target.

The flight test validated the performance of the entire weapon system, comprising a domestically developed radio frequency (RF) seeker-equipped missile, launcher, multi-function radar, and command, control, and communication system.

In August 2023, Bharat Dynamics provided the first radio RF seeker for the Akash-NG weapon system. The seeker is crucial for SAMs and air-to-air missiles as it tracks targets during the final phase with advanced technology.

Contractors and partnerships for Akash (sky) SAM development project

Several defence research and development organisations’ labs were involved in the development of the missile including the Defence Research & Development Laboratory, the Research & Development Establishment, the Combat Vehicles Research & Development Establishment, the High Energy Materials Research Laboratory and the Armament Research & Development Establishment.

The Rajendra or Battery Level Radar-III was developed by the Electronics & Radar Development Establishment and manufactured at Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL).

The contractors for Akash SAM system production are BEL for radar and electronic support systems; Tata Power and Larsen & Toubro for the launcher systems; Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) for missile systems. BDL is also the system integrator and nodal agency for Akash SAM production for the army.

Orders and deliveries

In June 2010, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) of India allocated Rs125bn ($2.8bn) for the army version Akash missile system for induction into the Indian Army.

In March 2023, India’s Ministry of Defence (MoD) finalised contracts to procure an upgraded Akash weapon system and 12 weapon locating

 radars from WLR (Swathi-Plains) for the Indian Army, totalling more than Rs91bn.

The leaders of UPDF,KDF and RDF are meeting in Kigali to discuss me key issues in Security more especially fighting terrorism.

The top miltary leaders of the countries involved in the Northern Corridor Integration Projects (NCIP) which are Rwanda, Kenya and Uganda, met in Kigali, and assessed together the status of military cooperation.

This two-day meeting, which started on Thursday, September 5, 2024, is being held in Kigali, where the participants will see together what has been achieved in the projects agreed by these member countries.

Among the projects agreed by these three countries that should be examined in this meeting, include cooperation in preventing, dealing with and resolving riots and conflicts, preventing genocide, fighting terrorism, fighting and fighting against theft, cooperation in peace efforts, disaster risk reduction.

These countries have also agreed on other projects including how to handle military forces in times of conflict, tracking and combating the illegal proliferation of small and large arms, dealing with cross-border crimes, collecting and sharing information in espionage for the purpose of combating wrongdoing is done.

On behalf of the Minister of Defence, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Defence, Brig Gen Celestin Kanyamahanga; He said that this meeting aims to examine together the challenges and to look together at the achievements in the implementation of the decisions that have been taken.

He also took the opportunity to ask the participants of the meeting, to invite experts to show what should be done, in order to find a common solution to the current problems, in the interests of the member countries.

The participants of the meeting emphasized that cooperation in military activities is necessary, especially in joint military exercises, in the sharing of intelligence information, in research and development in the field of the military.

DRC -Uganda joint technical commission to demarcate the common border between the two countries has been meeting in Goma discussing a road map and budget to implement the demarcation project

 

Since Wednesday, September 4, the DRC-Uganda joint technical commission has been discussing a road map and the budget for implementing the project to demarcate the common border between the DRC and Uganda, in North Kivu. These discussions which are being held in Goma aim to resolve the boundary conflicts which have opposed the two neighboring countries for a long time.

71 km long, the border boundary zone concerned by this project runs from Mount Sabinyo to Bwindi, on the boundary between Bwindi National Park (Uganda) and the Sarambwe Nature Reserve (DRC), passing through the DRC-Uganda-Rwanda tripoint. These regions are located in eastern Rutshuru territory and southwestern Uganda.

To date, only 16 markers mark the limits between the two countries, leaving room for the persistence of border conflicts. Hence the need to define concrete actions, according to Vangu Mabyala, expert from the Congolese Ministry of the Interior.

“The purpose of this meeting is to develop the budget for the border demarcation work to reveal, on the ground, the demarcation line,” he said.

Colonel Naboth Mwesigwa, head of the delegation of Ugandan experts, who does not recognize the multiple boundary conflicts between the two countries, affirms that this demarcation operation is rather preventive:

“There is no conflict and we have never been at war with the DRC but we are here to reassure ourselves that if there are some cross-border disagreements, that this is addressed for the benefit of both countries” .

More than 765 km of borders separate Uganda and the DRC, from Ituri to the east of the Rutshuru territory in North Kivu. Most of the border line affected by the current demarcation project is located in the east of the area currently occupied by the M23 rebellion supported by Rwanda.

FDLR-FOCA(Abacunguzi) kingpins who give President Kagame bad dreams and hysteria!Will Tshisekedi hand them over to Kigali?

 

1. Gaston Iyamuremye

Age: 76 years old

Interim President, former major in the Ex-FAR, born in 1948 in Ruhengeri.

2. Ntawunguka Pacific (Omega):

Age: 60 years old

Military leader of the FDLR (FOCA), born in 1964 in Gisenyi, he studied at the Military Academy and was battalion commander during the genocide.

3. Gakwerere Ezekiel:

Age: 60 years old

Secretary General, born in 1964 in Kibungo, implicated in atrocities during the genocide.

4. Hakizimana Apollinaire:

Age: 60 years old

Military commissioner, born in 1964 in Gisenyi, former head of intelligence of ALiR, sanctioned by the international community.

5. Sébastien Uwimbabazi:

Age: 56 years old

Head of military intelligence, born in 1968 in Kibuye, former gendarme who fled to Nyanza during the Rwandan genocide

Clashes between M23 rebels and Wazalendo militiamen in Machumbi

  

Violent fighting has been reported since the early hours of Tuesday, September 3, 2024, between M23 rebels and Wazalendo militiamen, in the locality of Bibwe, village of Machumbi, near Nyange, Bashali Mokoto group, territory of Masisi, in the North -Kivu.

According to Twizere Havugimana, a youth leader in the region, the M23 rebels attacked the Wazalendo positions, erected a few meters from Machumbi, at 5 a.m., once again causing the displacement of certain inhabitants of this part of Bashali.

This official specifies that at the time of writing this article, hostilities continue in these entities where the Wazalendo are resisting the enemy, although the population has fled the area.

Furthermore, a temporary lull is reported in the Ufamandu I grouping, after the violent clashes between these belligerents throughout the day of Monday, September 2, 2024, in the villages of Kachai, Ngololo, Dépôt and Mayuwano, disrupting school activities in this part of the Bahunde chiefdom.

According to local civil society, no weapons fire has been reported in this area since these attacks carried out by the VDP against the M23 rebels.

Mikairi Excellent, an actor in this citizen structure, specifies that despite this lull, there is no sign of a resumption of classes in these villages, not only because of the recent clashes, but also because of the presence of M23 elements in this group. .

 There is a bit of a lull in the areas attacked yesterday by the Wazalendo. These young people have further withdrawn from these areas under enemy control, but the inhabitants remain in their areas of refuge, because it is still dangerous for the population to return there. 

It should be noted that it is difficult to establish an assessment on all the front lines in the chiefdoms of Bashali and Bahunde, because the M23 rebels continue to destabilize the population

UPDF and FARDC have destroyed an ADF stronghold east of Makumu

FARDC/UPDF coalition destroyed one of the ADF strongholds east of Makumu and Biakato during patrols on September 1 and 2. Provisional results: 3 terrorists killed, 2 computers, 1 grenade and 1 Aka 47 weapon recovered. These computers were connected to ISCAP/EI networks

ATMIS civil-military cooperation (CIMIC) officers from Ugandan and Djiboutian contingents are in training to learn about the Mission's peace support operations and mandate.

 

The 4-day training, organised by the UK Mission Support Team (UKMST) in collaboration with ATMIS, was opened today in Mogadishu by ATMIS Deputy Force Commander in charge of Operations and Plans Maj. Gen. Marius Ngendabanka.

In attendance were Colonel Lutangu Sitali, the ATMIS Chief CIMIC Officer, and Colonel Shove Gilby, Commander of UK Forces in Somalia.

Demonstrations in Goma to denounce insecurity in the city and the redeployment of Kenyan soldiers in Eastern DRC

 The situation remained tense on Monday September 2 in the morning in Goma (North Kivu). Socio-economic activities were disrupted following the demonstrations which led to barricades on several roads. 

Sporadic gunfire was still heard and a reinforced police presence was visible in the morning at hot spots in the city. 

This is particularly in the Majengo, Mabanga and Kasika districts, where barricades made of stones were placed on the main arteries by spontaneous demonstrators. 

These demonstrations, which began on Saturday evening in the north of the city, spread during the morning of Monday in the western part, notably towards the Ndosho, Katoyi, Kyeshero and Mugunga districts.

Consequence: many shops remained closed in these areas, while everything was slowing down in the city center. Some schools operated timidly, with several parents preferring to keep their children at home on this back-to-school day.

A group of citizen movement activists circulated messages, particularly on social networks, calling for a ghost town day this Monday, September 2. 

Through this appeal, they intended to challenge the increase in crime in the city and the rotation of the Kenyan contingent within MONUSCO. This rotation is taking place, despite the update of August 29, 2024 from the Congolese Ministry of Foreign Affairs specifying that Kenyan troops are deployed in response to the request made in 2019 by the Government of DRC.

What is happening at makalaa central prison in Kinshasha?

The  situation remains tense at Makala Central Prison, where detonations resonate without the security services providing any information. At the same time, a currency exchange office was attacked by armed bandits on Avenue CPA, near the POMPAGE/NGALIEMA flyover. More details are expected in the coming minutes.

Monthly Counter-Terrorism Intelligence Review for East Africa (Kenya & Somalia) Shabaab Al-Mujahideen in Period of August 1st – August 31st, 2024: Tracking and Monitoring Al-Shabaab’s Activity in East Africa

Executive Summary:

Al-Shabaab has continued to demonstrate a significant escalation in insurgent activity across Kenya and Somalia, with a marked increase in the frequency and intensity of attacks.  In August 2024, Al-Shabaab significantly escalated their activities with a total of 69 recorded attacks across Kenya and Somalia. This marks a notable increase from July 2024, when about attacks were reported. The rise in attacks suggests a strategic intensification by Al-Shabaab, targeting both Kenyan and Somali forces with heightened aggression.

Al-Shabaab employed various attack methods, including Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), suicide bombings, and armed assaults. IEDs were the most frequently used weapon, appearing in 22 attacks. Suicide bombings occurred in 4 instances, and armed assaults were reported in 9 cases. Additionally, artillery was used in several attacks, indicating a diversified approach to their operations.

For Somalia, the most affected areas were Mogadishu, Lower Shabelle, Gedo, Bay, Middle Shabelle and Hiran. In Kenya, Mandera was targeted multiple times, reflecting a persistent focus on this region bordering Somalia. The aforementioned regions for both Kenya and Somalia saw repeated assaults, particularly on military bases and checkpoints. These areas have become recurrent focal points for Al-Shabaab’s operations.

In Kenya, attacks were concentrated in the northeastern regions, specifically Mandera and Garissa. The assaults involved IEDs and direct attacks on Kenyan military bases and security forces. Notable incidents included the raid on a Kenyan base in Lafi and the targeting of soldiers in Madax-Muruub. The organization continues to challenge Kenyan security forces in these areas.

In Somalia, Al-Shabaab’s activities were widespread, with Mogadishu, Middle Shabelle, Lower Shabelle and Gedo being particularly hard-hit. The group’s operations included assaults on military bases, checkpoints, and civilian targets. Significant incidents involved coordinated attacks on ATMIS-Ugandan bases and Somali government forces, as well as high-profile attacks in Mogadishu. The consistent targeting of these areas underscores Al-Shabaab’s strategic focus on undermining both local and international military presence.

Terrorism Events:

Week 1- August 1st – August 8th

August 8, 2024 – Al-Shabaab executed a double-tap Improvised Explosive Device (IED) attack followed by an armed assault targeting Somali and Ugandan forces between Janale and Bofo, Lower Shabelle, Somalia.

August 8, 2024 – Al-Shabaab raided a Kenyan Forces base in Lafi, Mandera, Northeastern Kenya, resulting in the death of one soldier.

August 7, 2024 – Al-Shabaab claims five Somali government forces surrendered after being ambushed in Hiran, Somalia.

August 7, 2024 – Al-Shabaab militants raided a Ugandan military base in Janale, Southern Somalia. Several were killed and injured.

August 7, 2024 – In a planned operation in the Bulo-Jameo area of Baydhaba city, Bay region, Al-Shabaab forces killed a number of SNA troops in the area.

August 6, 2024 – Al-Shabaab eliminated a Somali forces member and seized his weapon in Baidoa City, Bay, Southwestern Somalia.

August 6, 2024 – Al-Shabaab forces attacked ATMIS-Ethiopian forces’ base in Dinsoor district and a base of SNA troops in Goof-gaduud Buurey, near Baydhaba.

August 6, 2024 – Al-Shabaab forces launched a heavy attack on apostate militias in the Beledhawo district of Gedo province.

August 6, 2024 – Al-Shabaab launched a heavy attack on a Kenyan forces camp in the Dhamase area, Mandera region.

August 6, 2024 – Al-Shabaab killed and injured several Somali forces in an IED attack on their foot patrol in Bardere City, Gedo, Southwestern Somalia.

August 5, 2024 – Clashes between Al-Shabaab militants and security forces broke out in Ceelasha Biyaha, near Mogadishu, Lower Shabelle, Somalia.

August 5, 2024 – Al-Shabaab militants targeted a military vehicle transporting fuel for the National Army with an IED in Garasbaaleey, Mogadishu, Somalia.

August 4, 2024 – Al-Shabaab Mujahideen forces killed an apostate wanted by the group at the entrance to Hudur district, Bakool province, Somalia.

August 3, 2024 – A landmine explosion hit a civilian vehicle in Gololeey, Balcad District, traveling from Jowhar to Mogadishu. Eight people were aboard; only one survived.

August 2, 2024 – Al-Shabaab conducted a double-tap suicide bombing and armed assault on a restaurant and a hotel in Lido Beach, Mogadishu, Somalia, resulting in more than 20 dead and several injured.

August 2, 2024 – Al-Shabaab fighters carried out a heavy bombing operation targeting a government security checkpoint in Bafow, Lower Shabelle, injuring three Somali government soldiers.

Week 2: August 8th – August 15th.

August 15, 2024: Suspected Al-Shabaab militants abducted South Korean missionaries operating in Kenya near the Ethiopian border.

August 15, 2024: Al-Shabaab’s explosives unit executed an IED attack targeting Kenyan security forces in the El-Ramo area of Mandera County, Northern Frontier District (NFD).

August 14, 2024: Al-Shabaab militants conducted an explosion in Beled Hawo town, Gedo region, targeting a checkpoint manned by Somali National Army (SNA) forces, resulting in one soldier being injured.

August 14, 2024: Al-Shabaab launched a coordinated assault on the Baraxow camp controlled by SNA troops in Bardhere town, Gedo region.

August 13, 2024: Al-Shabaab claimed responsibility for a roadside explosion that struck a convoy of Kenyan soldiers near Kamboni in Lamu County, destroying a military vehicle and resulting in casualties among the soldiers onboard.

August 13, 2024: Al-Shabaab reported a heavy assault on Ethiopian troops and Somali government forces in the Hiran region, with direct attacks on military bases in Halgan and Buulaburte.

August 13, 2024: Al-Shabaab assassinated a Kenyan Forces officer in Nani, Garissa, Kenya, as part of their ongoing campaign against high-ranking governmental and military personnel.

August 13, 2024: Al-Shabaab militants claimed to have overrun a military base in Ilbaq, near Balcad, killing several government soldiers and capturing military ammunition. The Somali government has yet to respond to the attack.

August 13, 2024: Al-Shabaab claimed responsibility for attacking Somali soldiers on foot near Balcad, Middle Shabelle.

August 11, 2024: Al-Shabaab’s explosive brigade in the Hiran region conducted two planned explosions at a control point held by Somali government troops in Jalalaqsi, resulting in the deaths of three SNA soldiers and injuries to four others.

August 10, 2024: Al-Shabaab forces carried out coordinated assaults on ATMIS-Ugandan troops in No/60 and on SNA troops in Awdheegle and Janale districts, Lower Shabelle.

August 9, 2024: Al-Shabaab militants in Banaadir conducted a bomb attack targeting Somali government troops, including intelligence agents (NISA) and military police, stationed at the Ceelasha-Biyaha junction on the outskirts of Mogadishu.

August 9, 2024: Suspected Al-Shabaab assassins killed a government soldier at the Isgooska Xoosh intersection in Mogadishu’s Dharkeynely district. The attackers reportedly fled the scene.

August 9, 2024: Al-Shabaab executed a double-tap IED and armed assault targeting Somali and Ugandan forces between Janale and Bofo in Lower Shabelle.

August 9, 2024: Al-Shabaab raided a Kenyan Forces base in Lafi, Mandera, Northeastern Kenya, resulting in the death of one soldier. The group continues operations against Kenyan and Somali forces.

August 9, 2024: Al-Shabaab carried out a suicide bombing operation targeting SNA troops near Shabelle University on the outskirts of Mogadishu, killing two government soldiers and injuring another member of the Riddada.

August 8, 2024: A bomb attack claimed by Al-Shabaab militants near Shabelle University on the outskirts of Mogadishu resulted in the deaths of two Somali government soldiers and injuries to one other.

Week 3: August 15th – August 22nd.

On August 22, 2024, Al-Shabaab’s artillery unit targeted the ATMIS-operated base at Dhuusamareeb Airport in a planned attack, reportedly achieving their objectives.

On August 22, 2024, Al-Shabaab forces attacked Ugandan military positions in Danow, Buurcolow, and Baraawe Airport in Lower Shabelle, demonstrating their persistent military activity across Somalia.

On August 22, 2024, Al-Shabaab militants set fire to a truck transporting civilians in Dhaankalle, southern Mudug, approximately 7 km from Camaara. The truck, a “Biijii” type vehicle, was en route to Gaalkacyo with food supplies. Local sources confirmed that the civilians aboard escaped upon realizing the militants were approaching.

On August 21, 2024, Al-Shabaab attempted assassinations of the Commander-in-Chief of the Prison Service Forces and the Police Commander of Baidoa using Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) in Baidoa, Bay, Somalia.

On August 21, 2024, Al-Shabaab killed eight Kenyan forces, injured nine others, and destroyed a military convoy with an IED in Kiunga City, Lamu, Kenya.

On August 21, 2024, Al-Shabaab shelled and ambushed five Somali, Ugandan, and Ethiopian military bases and a patrol in Hodar, Wajid, Janale, Jazeera, and Elbaq, covering Balaad, Bakool, Mogadishu, and Lower and Middle Shabelle regions in Somalia.

On August 21, 2024, Al-Shabaab kidnapped and executed three Jubaland Administration militias, including an intelligence member, in Kismayo City, Lower Juba, southern Somalia.

On August 20, 2024, Al-Shabaab fighters launched mortar shells at Baidoa Airport. Following the attack, heavy gunfire was exchanged, and the militants retreated.

On August 20, 2024, Al-Shabaab claimed responsibility for two coordinated car bombings in the Garasbaley area on the road linking Mogadishu and Afgoye, targeting a NISA security checkpoint and a security camp. At least five soldiers were killed in the blasts.

On August 19, 2024, a blast, believed to be caused by an IED, occurred near a security checkpoint in Baidoa’s Somafone neighborhood. Other sources indicate that the explosion took place in front of a house belonging to a senior Southwest police officer, but there have been no reports of injuries.

On August 17, 2024, Al-Shabaab launched coordinated attacks on the Riddada bases in Goof-gaduud Buurey, located in the South West State, near Baydhaba.

On August 17, 2024, an Al-Shabaab explosion, suspected to be an IED blast, occurred inside a popular restaurant in Mogadishu’s Dayniile district. Local sources reported that over ten civilians were killed and 15 others injured in the blast.

On August 17, 2024, a heavy gun battle took place in the Elasha-biyaha neighborhood on the outskirts of Mogadishu after Al-Shabaab militants attacked camps for military police units. Casualties remain unknown.

On August 16, 2024, at least nine Southwest regional troops were killed near Awdiinle town after their vehicle struck a landmine planted by Al-Shabaab fighters. Credible local sources reported that the blast completely destroyed the military vehicle. Both the dead and injured soldiers were transported to Baidoa town.

On August 15, 2024, Al-Shabaab executed a bombing operation in Beledxaawo, Gedo region, targeting a Riddada militia checkpoint. The attack resulted in injuries to one Riddada officer.

On August 15, 2024, Al-Shabaab’s explosive unit targeted Kenyan troops stationed in Ceel-raamo, Ceel-qaalow district, Mandheera region, resulting in reported injuries.

On August 15, 2024, Al-Shabaab conducted a coordinated direct assault on the Baraxow base of allied militias in Baardheere district, Gedo region.

 Week 4: August 22nd – August 31st

On August 31, 2024, Al-Shabaab fighters targeted the Tabeelaha Sheekh Ibraahim market in Mogadishu’s Garasbaaley. Residents heard two large explosions before a fire engulfed the market. This attack followed Somali security forces urging businesses to install CCTV cameras, which Al-Shabaab opposed.

On August 31, 2024, Al-Shabaab fighters targeted Kenyan government soldiers stationed in the village of Madax-Muruub in Garissa County, who were guarding a well under construction.

On August 31, 2024, in Middle Shabelle, Al-Shabaab militants conducted an explosive operation targeting pro-government militia between Balcad and Qalimow, resulting in casualties.

On August 30, 2024, in Shabelle, Al-Shabaab launched a heavy assault on a government military base in the Arbacow area, near Mogadishu, shortly after the Fajr prayer.

On August 30, 2024, in Bay, Al-Shabaab targeted a Somali military base in Maaya-Fuulka, part of Baydhaba. These operations were part of their ongoing efforts against Somali government forces in the region.

On August 29, 2024, Al-Shabaab fighters launched a heavy assault on an ATMIS-Ugandan military base in Buulo-Mareer, Lower Shabelle region of southern Somalia. Injuries were reported.

On August 28, 2024, Al-Shabaab ambushed Kenyan security assets on patrol in the general vicinity of Mandera, Dhamase NEP prefectures. No details on casualties were provided, and the attempted probe was repelled.

On August 27, 2024, Al-Shabaab militants claimed responsibility for coordinated attacks on SNA military bases in the Bay region, targeting locations in Maaya-Fuulka and Iidow Dhegaal within Baydhaba. Casualties were reported.

On August 27, 2024, in Bakool, Al-Shabaab attacked an ATMIS-Ethiopian military base in Hudur, leading to a prolonged clash. Injuries were reported.

On August 26, 2024, in the Lower Shabelle region, a targeted explosion by Al-Shabaab forces in Afgooye injured two soldiers from the Somali government.

On August 25, 2024, Al-Shabaab al-Mujahideen forces targeted a vehicle, an Abdi Bile type, carrying militia members from Riddada in Tareedisho, near Mogadishu. The explosion resulted in the death of five Somali government soldiers and at least six others were injured. The vehicle was heavily damaged.

On August 25, 2024, in Barire, Lower Shabelle, Al-Shabaab al-Mujahideen forces targeted Somali troops in the area. The explosion killed one SNA soldier and injured another.

On August 24, 2024, in Hiilweyne, near Mogadishu, the artillery unit of Al-Shabaab al-Mujahideen targeted the base of SNA troops in Hiilweyne, located on the outskirts of Mogadishu, specifically on the road connecting Mogadishu and Balcad. The artillery attack successfully hit the intended target, causing various damages to the troops.

On August 24, 2024, in Gololey, near Balcad, Middle Shabelle region, Al-Shabaab al-Mujahideen forces carried out an explosive attack targeting Somali government troops in the area. The explosion resulted in the death of at least two SNA soldiers, with one more injured. The Mujahideen also seized a rifle and some ammunition.

On August 23, 2024, in Garbahaarey, Gedo region of Somalia, Al-Shabaab al-Mujahideen forces conducted an explosive attack inside the Islamic administration in Gedo. The target was a house occupied by Riddada militia members, resulting in the injury of two government soldiers.

On August 23, 2024, in Ceel-Waaq, Gedo, Al-Shabaab forces carried out another explosive operation targeting a gathering place where Riddada members were assembled. This explosion resulted in the death of one soldier and injuries to at least three other soldiers.

On August 23, 2024, in Dhuusamareeb, Al-Shabaab’s artillery unit conducted a planned operation targeting a military base operated by SNA troops at the Dhuusamareeb airport. The operation was executed as planned and is part of ongoing military actions against the Riddada group and the regional administration allied with ATMIS partner forces.

On August 23, 2024, in Lower Shabelle region, Al-Shabaab al-Mujahideen forces engaged in intense battles against ATMIS military bases, specifically targeting Ugandan troops stationed in Danow, Buurcolow, and Baraawe airport.

On August 22, 2024, Al-Shabaab claimed responsibility for an attack targeting ATMIS troops in the general vicinity of Janale, Lower Shabelle region of Somalia.

Al-Shabaab militants claimed to have overrun a military base in Ilbaq, near Balcad, Middle Shabelle.

Analysis, Observation & Insights.

In August 2024, terrorism activities in Kenya and Somalia saw a notable increase in frequency and intensity, primarily driven by Al-Shabaab, the Al-Qaeda-affiliated militant group. Throughout the month, nearly 70 attacks were demonstrating a sharp rise in militant operations compared to the previous month. This surge reflects Al-Shabaab’s strategic escalation of violence and its persistent efforts to undermine regional security forces and government stability.

The attacks carried out by Al-Shabaab during August included a variety of tactics and target types. Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) and suicide bombings were frequently used, showcasing a reliance on explosive methods to inflict maximum damage. The group also employed direct assaults, ambushes, and artillery attacks, revealing a diverse approach to achieving their operational goals. The preferred targets were military and security personnel, with a significant focus on Somali, Kenyan, and ATMIS forces. Civilian areas were not spared, as evidenced by attacks on markets and transportation vehicles.

Key regions affected by the escalation in attacks included regions in central and southern Somalia and Mandera, Garissa prefectures for Kenya. These areas consistently faced repeated assaults, indicating Al-Shabaab’s strategic focus on regions with significant military and logistical importance. The Lower Shabelle region, in particular, saw multiple heavy assaults and explosive operations targeting both local and international military bases. Mandera, located in Kenya’s northeastern region, was another hotspot, with multiple attacks on Kenyan forces underscoring the group’s transnational operational scope.

The increased frequency and variety of attacks also highlighted Al-Shabaab’s adaptation to counter-security measures. The group demonstrated a capacity to conduct coordinated assaults and carry out attacks on well-defended military positions. For instance, the successful ambush on Kenyan security forces guarding a well in Garissa County and the attack on an ATMIS-Ugandan base in Buulo-Mareer illustrate the group’s ability to execute complex operations against well-prepared targets.

Another significant observation is the group’s targeting of specific personnel and facilities. High-profile targets included government and military officials, with assassination attempts and attacks on military bases being common. The focus on high-ranking personnel and strategic military locations reflects a deliberate attempt to disrupt command structures and undermine operational effectiveness within the targeted forces.

In conclusion, August 2024 marked a period of intensified militant activity by Al-Shabaab in both Kenya and Somalia. The increase in attacks, their sophisticated execution, and the targeting of strategic and high-profile targets underscore a troubling trend of escalation. This surge in violence not only exacerbates regional instability but also challenges the counterterrorism efforts of affected nations and their international partners. A continued focus on intelligence-sharing, enhanced security measures, and regional cooperation will be essential in addressing and mitigating the threats posed by Al-Shabaab’s increasingly aggressive tactics.