On 23 June, RFI published a report titled ‘Libya's Al-Khadim airbase becomes a hub for Russian arms in the Sahel’. According to the report, Russia is relying on the Al-Khadim base near Benghazi to strengthen its military presence in the Sahel region of Africa. Using satellite imagery and flight radar information, RFI journalists were able to trace the itinerary of a Russian Antonov-124 cargo plane from the Hmeimin base to the Al-Khadim base in Libya., one of many flights operating on this route. The report argues that such flights are a sign that Russia appears to have successfully restructured its overseas presence, and is able to rely on a network of bases in Africa – ensuring the growth of the Africa Corps, and broader support for Moscow's regional allies.
Read the full report here.