Mali received more warplanes from Russia, On Thursday, in addition to several “drones” from Turkey, according to an “Agence France Presse” correspondent.
The commander of the Air Force in Mali, General Alo Boy Diarra, confirmed the receipt of about 20 aircraft and 12 “drones” during a ceremony attended by the head of the country’s military council, Colonel Assimi Guetta, and Russian and Turkish diplomats.
Agence France-Presse counted five planes and four drones on the runway of Bamako airport.
Mali had previously received similar military equipment in January, March, and August last year.
The delivery process, on Thursday, included more Czech-designed Albatros L-39s, which are intended for training purposes but can also be used as attack aircraft.
As for the Turkish drones, of the “Bayraktar” model, they are capable of carrying out reconnaissance and surveillance missions.
According to Col. Sadio Camara, Mali’s Defense Minister, the utilization of these drones could enhance the precision of artillery and air strikes.