A recent investigation has uncovered compelling evidence that advanced Chinese-made weaponry, including GB50A guided bombs and 155mm AH-4 howitzers, has been used by Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in direct violation of the United Nations arms embargo. The weapons, manufactured by China’s state-owned Norinco Group, were almost certainly re-exported to Sudan by the United Arab Emirates (UAE), despite China’s obligations under the Arms Trade Treaty (ATT) to prevent such diversions. This revelation highlights the UAE’s role in facilitating the flow of sophisticated weaponry into conflict zones, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in Sudan.
The Role of the UAE in Arms Transfers
The UAE has been identified as a key intermediary in the transfer of Chinese-made weapons to Sudan. Research indicates that the UAE has re-exported these weapons, circumventing international sanctions and contributing to the ongoing conflict. The presence of recently manufactured Chinese bombs in North Darfur and the deployment of AH-4 howitzers in Khartoum provide clear evidence of the UAE’s involvement in supplying arms to the RSF. This breach of the arms embargo not only violates international law but also undermines efforts to achieve peace and stability in Sudan.
China’s Obligations Under the Arms Trade Treaty
As a state party to the Arms Trade Treaty, China is legally bound to prevent the diversion of arms to conflict zones where they may be used to commit or facilitate serious violations of international humanitarian law. By continuing to supply weapons to the UAE, China risks indirectly contributing to the conflict in Sudan. The failure to adhere to these obligations calls into question China’s commitment to the principles of the ATT and its responsibility to prevent the misuse of its arms exports.
Humanitarian Impact and Civilian Casualties
The use of advanced weaponry in Sudan has had devastating consequences for civilians. On March 9, 2025, an RSF drone strike near al-Malha town in North Darfur resulted in the deaths of 13 individuals and left several others injured. The deployment of sophisticated Chinese-made bombs and artillery systems has enabled the RSF to conduct more effective and lethal attacks, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis and prolonging the suffering of the Sudanese people.
Calls for Accountability and Action
In light of these findings, Amnesty International has called for immediate action to halt the flow of arms to Sudan. The organization urges the international community to enforce existing arms embargoes and hold accountable those responsible for violating them. The UAE must cease its arms transfers to the RSF, and all international arms transfers to the UAE should be suspended until it can guarantee that none will be re-exported to Sudan or other embargoed destinations. Furthermore, China must take urgent measures to prevent the diversion of its arms exports and ensure compliance with the Arms Trade Treaty.
Broader Implications for Global Arms Control
The situation in Sudan underscores the challenges of enforcing international arms control agreements and the need for stronger mechanisms to prevent the diversion of arms to conflict zones. The involvement of multiple states in supplying weapons to warring parties highlights the complexities of global arms trade and the importance of international cooperation in addressing these issues. The international community must strengthen its commitment to arms control and work collectively to prevent the misuse of weapons that contribute to human suffering and conflict.
Conclusion
The identification of advanced Chinese-made weaponry provided by the UAE to Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces represents a significant breach of international arms embargoes and underscores the need for greater accountability in the global arms trade. The humanitarian impact of these actions is profound, with civilians bearing the brunt of the violence and instability. It is imperative that the international community takes decisive action to enforce arms control agreements, hold violators accountable, and work towards a peaceful resolution of the conflict in Sudan.
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