The Crucial Role of the SPLA Signals Unit in South Sudan’s Liberation Struggle
By Chol Michael Maker, Juba, South Sudan | Saturday, 17 May 2025
Founding and Leadership of the SPLA Signals Unit
The SPLA Signals Unit, officially known as Signals and Electronic Warfare (CEW), played a pivotal role in South Sudan’s liberation movement. Established under the command of SPLA Deputy Chief of General Staff Salva Kiir Mayardit, the unit reported through military hierarchy to Commander William Nyuon Bany and ultimately to Dr. John Garang de Mabior, the SPLA Commander-in-Chief.
For years, Commander Gier Chuang Aluong (known by various codenames including Gee Cee and Wilson Gideon) led this critical intelligence-gathering unit. The Signals Unit’s work was so vital that enemy forces viewed it with particular suspicion throughout the conflict.
Intelligence Operations and Military Strategy
The Signals Unit served as the primary intelligence collector for SPLA forces, gathering crucial information about enemy:
- Manpower and weaponry
- Morale levels
- Terrain conditions
- Combat preparations
This intelligence was verified by military intelligence before being passed to infantry commanders, following strict military protocols to ensure operational success.
Coordination with Other Military Units
The Signals Unit worked in tandem with other specialized forces:
Combat Engineering Unit
Placed anti-tank and anti-personnel mines based on Signals intelligence
Artillery Unit
Established firing coordinates using Signals data
Air Defence Unit
Remained alert for enemy air raids based on Signals warnings
The Legacy of Commander Gier Chuang Aluong
Lt. Gen. Gier Chuang Aluong’s decade of leadership established the Signals Unit as the backbone of SPLA intelligence operations. After the war, he served in numerous government positions including:
- Federal Minister of Telecommunications
- Minister of Interior
- Minister of Roads and Bridges
Today, he serves as a Member of Parliament, while his colleague Brig. Gen. Philip Chol Kander continues service in regional diplomacy.
Conclusion
The SPLA Signals Unit’s contributions to intelligence gathering and strategic coordination were instrumental in South Sudan’s liberation struggle. Their work enabled successful military operations while minimizing casualties through precise intelligence.
For more details, read the original article on PaanLuel Wël Media.