China-Made Y-12 Aircraft Increasingly Deployed by Air Force in Recent Bombing Raids Across Several Combat Zones

 Enemy Air Route (EAR), an aviation monitoring group, reported that the Military Council used a variety of aircraft, including fighter jets, helicopters, and China-built Y-12 light transport planes, to conduct a minimum of 20 bombing attacks across several frontlines, including Rakhine State, since the initiation of 'Operation 1027' by the Three Brotherhood Alliance.

From November 20thto December 3rd, the Junta’s air force conducted raids over combat zones, including northern Shan State, Rakhine State, Karen State, Karenni (Kayah) State, Chin State, and Sagaing Region, utilizing Y-12s, twin-engine turboprop utility aircraft.

During a minimum of 20 air strikes, Y-12s dropped between 4 and 45 bombs in each instance, EAR reported.

The Y-12s are primarily deployed for training, transport, and parachuting exercises. However their current utilization has shifted to include airstrikes.

Y-12s exhibit a limited capability for precise targeting in bombing, thereby posing a relatively low risk to resistance forces. Nevertheless, EAR has issued a cautionary note, pointing out that the Military Council is also targeting residential areas.

EAR advises civilians that if they observe Y-12s flying at a slower pace, distinct from jet fighters, they should quickly seek refuge in bomb pits, bunkers, or trenches and take cover. This monitoring group  also shared that due to Y-12s' slower speed compared to jet fighters, the public will have more time to evacuate their homes and find safe shelter.

Y-12s are  high wing twin-engine turboprop utility aircraft built by Harbin Aircraft Industry Group of China.According to EAR, Y-12 aircraft boasts several advantages, including its capability to cover distances up to 800 miles, sustain flight for over 5 hours, it has a compact body necessitating e only a short runway and the flexibility to take off and land at any airport.

The drawbacks of the aircraft include its limited engine power, restricting its capacity to carry substantial weight, be it passengers or weaponry. As it was not designed for combat purposes, Y-12 lacks the capability to achieve high speeds, altitude, and maneuverability akin to jet fighters.

Y-12 aircraft, measuring approximately 50 feet in length and characterized by a nearly rectangular body structure, is equipped with a single turboprop engine on each side under the wings, a fixed landing gear, and emits a sound reminiscent of the whirring of houseflies, according to EAR.

EAR added that the enemy has adopted a new strategy, reportedly opening the rear doors of Y-12s and dropping bombs from there, citing sources within the Military Council.

At present, the Military Council has six Y-12s in active combat service, stationed at airbases and airstrips located in Hmawbi, Magway, Naypyidaw, Monywa, Mawlamyine, and Taungoo.