Title: The AFC/M23 Rebel Movement’s Claim of Responsibility for the Drone Attack on Kisangani Airport: An Analysis of the Strategic and Security Implications in the Democratic Republic of Congo
Abstract:
On February 3, 2026, the leader of the Alliance Fleuve Congo (AFC)/M23 rebel movement in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) claimed responsibility for a drone attack targeting the airport serving the strategic northeastern city of Kisangani. This paper analyzes the strategic and security implications of this attack, which was reportedly carried out as a warning to the government. The attack highlights the increasing use of drones by non-state actors in the region and the potential risks to civilian aviation and national security. This paper examines the context of the conflict in the DRC, the role of the AFC/M23 rebel movement, and the implications of the drone attack on regional stability and security.
Introduction:
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has been plagued by conflict and instability for decades, with various rebel groups and militias operating in the eastern regions of the country. The AFC/M23 rebel movement, led by Corneille Nangaa, is one of the most prominent groups operating in the region. On February 3, 2026, the leader of the AFC/M23 claimed responsibility for a drone attack targeting the airport serving the strategic northeastern city of Kisangani. The attack, which was reportedly carried out using eight explosive-laden drones, was repelled by the provincial government, but it highlights the increasing use of drones by non-state actors in the region and the potential risks to civilian aviation and national security.
Background:
The DRC has been experiencing a surge in rebel activity in recent years, with groups such as the M23, the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), and the Mai-Mai militia operating in the eastern regions of the country. The AFC/M23 rebel movement, which was formed in 2012, has been involved in clashes with the DRC government forces and has been accused of human rights abuses and war crimes. The group has been seeking greater autonomy and control over the region’s natural resources, including gold, diamonds, and coltan.
The Drone Attack:
The drone attack on Kisangani airport was reportedly carried out on the weekend of January 31-February 2, 2026. According to the provincial government, eight explosive-laden drones were launched at the airport, but were shot down before reaching their target. The attack was claimed by the AFC/M23 rebel movement, which described it as a warning to the government. The use of drones by the AFC/M23 rebel movement highlights the increasing sophistication and technological capabilities of non-state actors in the region.
Strategic and Security Implications:
The drone attack on Kisangani airport has significant strategic and security implications for the DRC and the region. The attack highlights the vulnerability of civilian aviation and national security to drone attacks, particularly in areas where rebel groups and militias operate. The use of drones by non-state actors also raises concerns about the potential for terrorist attacks and the need for enhanced security measures to prevent such attacks.
The attack also has implications for regional stability and security. The DRC is a key player in regional security dynamics, and instability in the country can have far-reaching consequences for the region. The AFC/M23 rebel movement’s claim of responsibility for the drone attack suggests that the group is seeking to expand its operations and influence in the region.
Conclusion:
The AFC/M23 rebel movement’s claim of responsibility for the drone attack on Kisangani airport highlights the increasing use of drones by non-state actors in the region and the potential risks to civilian aviation and national security. The attack has significant strategic and security implications for the DRC and the region, and underscores the need for enhanced security measures to prevent such attacks. The international community must work with the DRC government and regional actors to address the root causes of the conflict and to develop strategies to prevent the use of drones by non-state actors.
Recommendations:
Enhanced Security Measures: The DRC government and regional actors must develop and implement enhanced security measures to prevent drone attacks, including the use of drone detection and neutralization systems.
Conflict Resolution: The international community must work with the DRC government and regional actors to address the root causes of the conflict and to develop strategies to resolve the conflict peacefully.
Regional Cooperation: Regional actors must work together to develop a coordinated response to the threat posed by non-state actors in the region, including the sharing of intelligence and best practices.
International Support: The international community must provide support to the DRC government and regional actors to develop the capacity to prevent and respond to drone attacks, including the provision of training and equipment.
References:
“Congo rebel leader claims responsibility for drone attack on strategic northeast airport.” Reuters, February 3, 2026.
“DRC: M23 Rebel Group Claims Responsibility for Drone Attack on Kisangani Airport.” African News Agency, February 3, 2026.
“The M23 Rebel Movement in the DRC: A Review of the Conflict.” International Crisis Group, 2022.
“Drones and Non-State Actors: A Review of the Literature.” Journal of Conflict Studies, 2020.