Four Chinese-made CH-4 combat drones have reportedly been spotted at a military air base in Chad, suggesting the country may be preparing to add the aircraft to its growing drone fleet.
Images reportedly taken at Abéché Air Base in eastern Chad show four Caihong-4 unmanned combat aerial vehicles alongside operating and maintenance equipment.
However, Chadian authorities have not publicly confirmed the acquisition.
If confirmed, the purchase would make Chad one of a small number of African countries operating the Chinese-built CH-4.
Chad could join Nigeria and DR Congo
Nigeria and the Democratic Republic of Congo are among the African operators of the CH-4.
The drone has also been purchased by countries outside Africa, including Iraq, Indonesia, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.
Chad has invested in new military equipment in recent years as it seeks to strengthen its security capabilities.
The country shares borders with Libya, Sudan, Nigeria, Cameroon, Niger and the Central African Republic.
Its forces therefore operate across a region affected by armed groups, cross-border insecurity and political instability.
What is China’s CH-4 drone?
The Caihong-4, also known as the Rainbow-4 or CH-4, is designed for both surveillance and combat missions.
The drone was developed by the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation.
According to the source report, the CH-4 can remain airborne for up to 40 hours. It has a wingspan of around 18 metres and can carry up to 345 kilograms of equipment and weapons.
The armed CH-4B variant can carry guided bombs and air-to-ground missiles.
Its long flight time also allows the aircraft to monitor large areas before returning to base.
Chad expands military capabilities
Chad has acquired military equipment from several international suppliers in recent years.
Its purchases have included Chinese artillery, armoured vehicles from the United Arab Emirates and aircraft and drones from Türkiye.
The country is also reportedly spending €50 million to modernise its military vehicle fleet through a contract with French defence company Arquus.
The reported appearance of CH-4 drones at Abéché could therefore represent another step in that modernisation.
For now, however, Chad has not publicly announced that the aircraft have formally entered service.