Haftar's Acquisition of Combat Drones Amidst UN Embargo

Khalifa Haftar, the military leader of eastern Libya, has reportedly acquired Chinese and Turkish combat drones, despite an ongoing United Nations (U.N.) embargo on arms supplies to Libya. Satellite imagery has confirmed the presence of at least three drones at Al Khadim airbase, located approximately 100 kilometers east of Benghazi, between late April and December 2025. This acquisition could significantly bolster Haftar's military capabilities and influence in ongoing negotiations for a unified Libyan government.

Reuters

The drones identified include a Chinese-made Feilong-1 (FL-1) and Turkish-made Bayraktar TB2 models. However, the exact suppliers and timing of the deliveries remain unclear, as the Libyan National Army (LNA), the governments of China and Turkey, and the manufacturers have not responded to inquiries. The U.N. Security Council, which oversees the embargo, has also not provided information regarding any exemptions that may have been granted for these drone deliveries.

Reuters

The U.N. arms embargo has been in place since 2011, following the NATO-backed uprising that ousted longtime ruler Muammar Gaddafi. Despite the embargo, Libya has seen a significant influx of high-tech weaponry, particularly during the civil war from 2014 to 2020. The LNA, supported by countries such as the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Egypt, and Russia, has been engaged in a protracted conflict against the U.N.-recognized government in Tripoli, which has received support from Turkey.

Reuters

The introduction of these drones is viewed as a strategic advantage for Haftar, potentially reinforcing his control over eastern Libya and key oilfields. Anas El Gomati, head of the Sadeq Institute, noted that the drones could also be utilized to protect supply lines to the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Sudan, although Haftar has denied any support for the RSF. The LNA's recent deal to purchase $4 billion worth of military equipment from Pakistan, including JF-17 fighter jets, further indicates an ongoing effort to enhance its military capabilities.

Reuters

The acquisition of these drones has raised concerns among international observers regarding violations of the U.N. embargo. Justyna Gudzowska from The Sentry highlighted past attempts to smuggle military drones into Libya, indicating a persistent challenge in enforcing the embargo. The U.N. has expressed "grave concern" over ongoing violations, yet the flow of advanced weaponry continues.

Reuters

While satellite imagery suggests the presence of advanced drones at Al Khadim, the operational status and control of these drones remain uncertain. Experts have noted that the LNA may lack the technical expertise to operate such advanced systems, raising questions about who is actually piloting the drones. Additionally, the UAE and Turkey have not clarified their roles in the recent developments, leaving gaps in the understanding of the situation.

Reuters

• “The question remains: who's operating them?” — Anas El Gomati, Head of the Sadeq Institute

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• “we support Ukraine, support its sovereignty” — Haluk Bayraktar, CEO of Baykar

Reuters

The situation in Libya continues to evolve, with the potential for increased tensions as military capabilities are enhanced amidst a backdrop of international scrutiny and a fragile peace.

Reuters