The Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a paramilitary group in Sudan, have received a Chinese-made short-range surface-to-air missile system FB-10A, significantly strengthening their air defense capability.
The equipment was originally purchased by Chad in February 2025 under an agreement supported by the United Arab Emirates, but it was diverted and delivered to the RSF, potentially violating international restrictions.
The FB-10A, developed by the Eighth Academy of the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation, is designed to protect mobile units and strategic installations, intercepting helicopters, drones, cruise missiles, and fixed-wing aircraft at short range. Its modular design allows for networked or independent operation, integrating detection, tracking, and missile launch on a single platform.
Analysts note that the arrival of the system in RSF hands increases the group’s military sophistication, which already possesses advanced weaponry from foreign partners, including armored vehicles and FK-2000 systems.
The presence of the FB-10A in Sudan highlights the use of indirect channels for arms transfer, while strengthening the RSF’s ties with international sponsors, potentially altering the tactical balance in battles against the Sudanese Armed Forces.
Source: Defence Blog | Photo: X @AfriMEOSINT | This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team
So now the RSF possesses another SHORAD besides the FK-2000
What seemed a routine arms deal has revealed something far more serious.
The Chinese FB-10A SAM system, bought by Chad in February 2025, was never deployed there — it has surfaced in Sudan, now in the hands of the RSF. pic.twitter.com/2VEpruMuwf
— Rich Tedd 🛰 ✈️ (@AfriMEOSINT) October 4, 2025
