Russian Africa Corps Helicopter Downed by Rebel Missile in Mali

(KIDAL REGION, MALI) – A Russian Africa Corps helicopter, most likely a Mi-8 transport, has been shot down by rebels in northern Mali, marking another aviation loss for the Kremlin controlled paramilitary group.

Footage verified last Friday shows the burning wreckage of the helicopter at an unspecified location in the Kidal area. The Russian Telegram channel Fighter Bomber confirmed the loss, reporting that both the crew and a mobile fire team on board were killed.

The channel identified the cause as a surface to air missile, likely a man portable air defence system (MANPADS). The helicopter was reportedly operating in the Gao region when it was struck.

The Russian Africa Corps, the Kremlin managed successor to the Wagner mercenary group, routinely operates Mi-8 helicopters for transporting mobile fire teams across the continent. While the unit is not technically part of the Russian army, navy, or air force, the majority of its weaponry is supplied by the Russian Ministry of Defence. Some equipment may also be drawn from Mali’s own inventory, which includes Mi-8 helicopters.

Malian rebels, who launched a new offensive in the country this week, claimed responsibility for the shootdown. The loss comes amid a significant insurgent push that has already seen Russian forces flee a base near Kidal after being surrounded. The destruction of the Mi-8 further degrades the Africa Corps’ airlift capability in the Sahel.

The precise location of the incident remains unconfirmed, though it is reported to have occurred in the Gao area of Mali.

The footage was featured by the open source intelligence channel Suchomimus on YouTube.