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Russia’s Africa Corps Is Now Rolling With Infauna Electronic Warfare System in Mali
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![Photo of Vlad Litnarovych]( "Photo of Vlad Litnarovych")
A Russian RB-531B Infauna electronic warfare and signals intelligence system has been spotted in Mali, where units of Russia’s so-called Africa Corps are operating, Militarnyi reported on November 4.
A photograph of the vehicle was published by Hammer Of War, citing Casus Belli on X.
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The appearance of the system suggests Russian forces are expanding the specialized electronic warfare equipment available to their units in Africa, particularly for protecting military convoys and disrupting communications used by local armed groups.
The RB-531B Infauna is designed to protect vehicles and armored columns against radio-controlled improvised explosive devices, support protection from targeted fire, collect signals intelligence, and jam VHF communications.
Mali 🇲🇱: Picture from @casusbellii made in June 2025 showing a similar russian made electronic warfare vehicle of the Africa Corps 🇷🇺, which could be a RB-531B ''Infauna'' or a Borissoglebsk-2. https://t.co/Yq6xG45gsX pic.twitter.com/Ucyq6BZwFO
— Hammer Of War (@HammerOfWar5) November 1, 2026
Development of the system began in 2005 and continued through 2009, with Russia’s Sozvezdie concern serving as the main developer.
The first production systems entered service with Russia’s airborne forces in 2012. Infauna vehicles were also deployed with units of Russia’s 201st Military Base in Tajikistan.
The system is built on the K1Sh1, or GAZ-59039, wheeled armored chassis derived from the BTR-80. Its enlarged hull provides space for specialized electronic equipment and the three-person crew, consisting of a commander, driver, and electronic warfare operator.
One of the vehicle’s most recognizable features is a telescopic mast mounted on the roof, which carries the system’s antenna equipment.
To counter radio-controlled explosive devices, Infauna generates broadband jamming intended to block detonation signals while a convoy is moving or stationary.
The system is also equipped with laser-warning sensors that can automatically trigger smoke grenade launchers to conceal the vehicle and nearby convoy elements when laser targeting is detected.
Previously, reports emerged that Russia has been using civilian cargo ships to transport military equipment and suspected undercover intelligence operatives to Africa, with investigators identifying 28 passengers believed to have traveled under fabricated identities aboard vessels carrying supplies for Russian military operations on the continent.
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