AFC/M23 Fighters Deploy Warships in South Kivu Combat

South Kivu, DRC - December 21-22, 2025

AFC/M23 fighters operating in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo have begun using warships in combat, marking a new escalation in the ongoing conflict in South Kivu Province.

On December 21, government and allied forces launched a major attack on AFC/M23 positions in Bangwi, Fizi territory, aiming to recapture territory. The offensive was repelled, prompting residents to flee to safer areas such as Swima and Mboko.

The following day, DRC and Wazalendo forces attacked the Makabola center, held by AFC/M23 for nearly two weeks. In response, AFC/M23 deployed a warship on Lake Tanganyika, firing on attacking forces and forcing them to retreat.

“After these shells, we saw FARDC soldiers leaving the battlefield and heading towards Mboko. This situation caused panic among the population, forcing many to flee again,” an eyewitness said.

This year’s fighting has demonstrated the AFC/M23’s access to advanced military equipment, including aircraft, combat drones, and long-range heavy weapons, much of which was captured from the DRC army during earlier operations, including the takeover of Goma.

The rebel group has used these heavy weapons extensively in the Rusizi Valley and now extends its control to parts of Lake Tanganyika, challenging the dominance of DRC and Burundian forces in the region.