A report by Reuters has revealed that Khalifa Haftar has acquired combat drones of Chinese and Turkish origin, despite the ongoing UN arms embargo imposed on Libya since 2011. The report also notes that the drones could potentially be used to support supply lines for paramilitary groups in neighboring countries, such as Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces, although Haftar denies any direct links. Experts pointed out that Haftar’s forces lack the technical expertise to operate such advanced systems, raising questions about who is actually responsible for operating them. In December, Haftar’s forces reportedly reached a $4 billion agreement with Pakistan to purchase military equipment, including JF-17 Thunder fighter jets developed in cooperation with China. According to Reuters, these drones represent both a symbolic and strategic boost to Haftar’s influence in eastern and southern

Source: Libya Observer April 02, 2026 17:41 UTC