“Junta launches more drone attacks”

Narinjara News, June 26, 2025

Intense fighting continues between the Arakan Army (AA) and junta forces in three key locations within Kyaukphyu Township, Rakhine State, where significant Chinese development projects are underway.

The clashes are centered around Pyine Say Kay village, the police combat battalion (32) in the Gone Chwain area, Malakyun, and Kap Tha Pyay village near the Dhanyawaddy Navy Headquarters in the Thit Poke Taung area.

"The fighting occurs almost daily, particularly near the police station and Pyine Say Kay village, as well as Malakyun village. Recent battles have involved junta airstrikes aimed at preventing the AA from attacking the OGT,” stated a local source. “In the Thit Poke Taung area, the military is engaged in skirmishes to stop the AA at Kap Tha Pyay and to prevent the AA from reaching the Navy Headquarters.”

Military analysts suggest that the conflict in Kyaukphyu is characterized by a back-and-forth struggle between the military and the AA, indicating a protracted stalemate for both sides.

The military council holds a technological edge, including drone capabilities, while the AA relies on its ground combat expertise. 

“The junta forces are primarily conducting drone strikes from a distance. When conditions are favorable, they deploy Chinese drones. The junta ground troops are not advancing significantly; the army is largely depending on drones and heavy artillery,” the analyst explained.

In Kyaukphyu, the military council is conducting multi-faceted attacks on the AA from the ground, sea, and air, while the Arakan Army retaliates with heavy weaponry. 

Reports from military sources indicate that the council has deployed strategically trained Muslim soldiers and local militias with little combat experience to the front lines, resulting in high casualty rates among these groups.

Amid ongoing battles, members of the military, including militia personnel, have been seen fleeing in chaos, with some seeking refuge in residential areas of Kyaukphyu city. The army has conducted searches in these neighborhoods to locate the fleeing soldiers.

Since February 2025, there have been multiple reports of army personnel, including major and battalion commander-level officers, surrendering to the AA.

Despite the fleeing soldiers and rising casualties, a military source informed Narinjara that the army continues to defend its positions primarily through drone operations.

Both sides are fiercely contesting Kyaukphyu, recognizing its strategic significance as a gateway to the Indian Ocean and a hub for major Chinese investments.