Algeria Downs Mali's Akinci Drone in Cross-Border Incident
The Algerian military reported that they brought down a Malian Akinci-class drone. According to the statement from the Algerian Ministry of Defense, "An air defense unit within the 6th Military Region identified and intercepted an armed surveillance drone close to the frontier town of Tin Zaoutine late on April 1, 2025." press release On Tuesday, the drone had entered Algerian airspace by approximately 2 kilometers when it was intercepted.
In the latter part of the day, the Malian government responded To the event. "The General Staff of the Malian Armed Forces has notified the public that on the night between March 31 and April 1, 2025, an unmanned drone from FAMa crashed close to Tin-Zawatene, located within the Kidal region. This aircraft was conducting a standard surveillance operation aimed at monitoring the area as part of efforts to safeguard individuals and their possessions."
In the meantime, the Azawad Liberation Front, a faction antagonistic towards the Malian government, was active. claimed responsibility for shooting down a Malian drone 24 hours prior as it flew over Tin Zaoutine. Their announcement included this information alongside photos showing the aircraft’s debris.
The drone event mirrors the situation around the release Regarding a Spanish citizen who was abducted on January 14 in Algeria. The Algerian government along with the Azawad Liberation Front (FLA) both stated they were responsible for ensuring the safe release of the tourist, Navarro Giane