UK Military Hands Sudan Evacuation Back to Local Authorities
The Royal Navy, Army, and RAF have officially handed over evacuation operations at Sudan’s Wadi Seidna airfield to local authorities. After more than 20 evacuation flights, the UK’s Joint Task Force wrapped up its mission, leaving the airfield in top shape.
Thousands Rescued from Khartoum’s Chaos
Wadi Seidna, north of Khartoum, served as the UK’s main hub for evacuating British nationals and their families. While the final UK flight left the airfield last Saturday, British forces stayed on into Sunday to ensure everything was squared away. Flights are still ongoing from Port Sudan.
Royal Engineers raced against time to repair damage on the runway caused by the heavy traffic of international flights. Their efforts left the airstrip in better condition than when the UK took over, handing it back to Sudan’s senior representative.
Before leaving, the UK Joint Task Force Commander praised the close partnership with Sudanese officials that made rescuing over 2,000 people possible.
Defence Chiefs Praise Armed Forces’ Heroics
Defence Secretary Ben Wallace said: “Yet again our Armed Forces are leading the way. I’m extremely grateful to all personnel and our international partners including the US, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia for helping safely evacuate more than 2,000 civilians from over 20 nations.”
“This was the biggest and longest evacuation from Sudan by any Western nation. First in, last out. Defence gets things done.”
The evacuation demanded incredible coordination to manage the crisis with dignity and care in a hostile environment.
On-the-Ground Commanders Reflect on Gruelling Mission
Lt Col Oliver Denning RM, UK ground commander at Wadi Seidna, said: “I’m extremely proud of the Rapid Extraction Task Force who worked under intense pressure amid 45°C heat. Personnel from all services, supporting FCDO and Home Office teams, showed huge compassion helping people aged from 5 days to 92 years from over 20 countries.”
UK civilian and military teams also distributed toys, sanitary supplies, food, and water to evacuees on site.
Runway Repairs and Medical Aid Crucial for Safe Evacuations
The runway fixes marked the first operational repair by British forces since the Falklands war in 1982. A mobile medical facility treated 130 people, including performing life-saving surgeries.
Major Mark Borley, Commanding Officer of 51 Parachute Squadron RE, said: “The nighttime runway work was tough, but it gave aircrews the confidence they needed to land safely, allowing us to get vulnerable people to safety. The team’s professionalism and determination made a real difference.”
Meanwhile, HMS 1 remains docked in Port Sudan, with her crew continuing vital support for evacuees and officials.
