In recent weeks, accusations have emerged alleging that the United States has been sending surveillance aircraft into the airspaces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Uganda, with particular focus on regions rich in oil.
These allegations have triggered widespread concern, particularly due to the sensitive nature of the areas targeted, which include military bases and oil production facilities.
According to reports, a Bombardier Challenger 604, registered as N9191, has been observed making multiple flights over the two countries during November. 
This aircraft, which is stationed in Djibouti, raised suspicions regarding potential espionage activities, especially given the strategic importance of the areas it flew over.
Accusations of United States Spy Planes in DRC and Uganda’s Sensitive Areas
The allegations stem from Ugandan media outlet Chimpreport, which reported that the Bombardier Challenger 604 conducted three flights over Uganda and the DRC on November 14, 15, and 26. The aircraft’s maneuvers, which took place over sensitive zones in both nations, have caused concern among officials, who suspect espionage.
An anonymous source within the Ugandan government pointed to the Albertine Area, an oil-producing region that also hosts military bases used to counterterrorism threats from groups like the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) in the DRC.
The source expressed confusion as to why the U.S. surveillance plane focused on this specific area. They questioned what type of data might have been collected, given the region’s importance for both military and economic activities.
Military and Oil Facilities Targeted by United States Spy Planes
In response to these allegations, Uganda’s defense ministry confirmed the presence of the U.S. aircraft over sensitive regions. Brigadier General Felix Kulayigye, spokesperson for Uganda’s Ministry of Defense, stated that the spy plane conducted overflights of Beni in the DRC and Kasese and Bundibugyo in Uganda.
These areas are critical both for Uganda’s military operations and the country’s oil production.
As the reports gained traction, questions grew regarding the true nature of these flights. The United States had previously applied for overflight authorization from Uganda’s Defense Ministry, claiming the flights were meant for logistical purposes, including the delivery of soldiers and equipment to the DRC.
However, the flights did not receive clearance from the DRC government, raising further suspicions.
Suspicious Surveillance in DRC and Uganda: What’s Really Happening?
Officials within Uganda’s defense sector also reported that the surveillance aircraft flew close to Ugandan military installations and key oil-producing regions, sparking concern that the United States might be gathering sensitive military and economic intelligence.
The proximity of the aircraft to these sites during the overflights has raised doubts about the official explanation of the flights’ purposes.
Despite these growing concerns, the U.S. government has yet to provide any official statement regarding the allegations. The Ugandan government has assured that the matter is under investigation at the highest levels, and many are watching closely to see how the situation develops.
What’s Next for the United States in DRC and Uganda?
As this issue continues to unfold, the focus remains on the potential ramifications for U.S. relations with both Uganda and the DRC. Given the strategic importance of these countries, particularly in relation to the oil-rich Albertine region, any confirmation of espionage activities would have serious diplomatic implications.
The United States’ presence in East Africa has been a subject of scrutiny for years, with concerns over both military operations and economic interests.
As the situation develops, it will be essential to monitor how this issue is addressed diplomatically and what measures both the DRC and Uganda will take in response to the allegations.
United States Spy Planes in DRC and Uganda Under Scrutiny
The allegations of U.S. spy planes conducting surveillance over sensitive areas in the DRC and Uganda have sparked significant concern.
While the United States has yet to comment directly on these accusations, the growing suspicion surrounding these flights, particularly over military and oil-rich regions, is likely to strain relations.
The unfolding situation highlights the delicate balance between military operations, economic interests, and international relations in one of Africa’s most resource-rich regions.
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