Junta launches air and naval attacks on Thandwe and Gwa townships in southern Arakan

By Admin 11 Oct 2025

DMG Newsroom

11 October 2025, Thandwe

The Myanmar military junta has intensified its air and naval assaults on several parts of southern Arakan State controlled by the Arakan Army (AA), according to local reports.

In recent days, increased naval movements have been observed in the coastal waters near Thandwe Township, residents said.

Previously, there were only two navy vessels stationed off Thandwe’s coast. However, since October 7, locals have reported seeing up to six warships patrolling the sea and firing intermittently.

“Normally there are just two navy ships going back and forth, but over the past three days we’ve seen more ships and increased shelling,” said a local man from Thandwe.

At around 8 a.m. on October 10, the junta’s Y-12 aircraft dropped two bombs near Ywar Shay Village in Thandwe Township, according to residents.

On October 9, naval vessels deployed near Ngapali Beach fired artillery shells toward the Thandwe area, while Y-8 and Y-12 aircraft circled over Thandwe and Gwa townships for about four hours, locals said.

That same day, junta warships also fired 11 rounds of heavy artillery from the sea west of Pone Nyet Village in Gwa Township, according to residents.

On August 2, junta naval vessels fired artillery shells into Jet Taw Ward in Thandwe Township, destroying several homes.

Residents believe the junta’s recent use of air and naval attacks is intended to terrorize civilians and open new fronts to reclaim territory lost to the AA.

“It’s difficult for the military to regain ground control in Arakan, so they’re trying to attack from the sea instead. They’re also using airstrikes to intimidate people. Ahead of the election, the junta is focusing on possible invasion routes along the coast where it could attempt renewed offensives,” said a resident from southern Arakan.

In addition to the naval buildup, the junta has stepped up airstrikes in areas under AA control across southern Arakan.

Despite these operations, military analysts say the junta’s chances of regaining territory in southern Arakan — including Ann, Gwa, Taungup, and Thandwe townships — remain slim in the lead-up to the election.

“There are three main fronts into southern Arakan, but none are progressing. The junta has not achieved any significant gains. At this stage, Ann is the most crucial area — if they could capture Ann and Taungup, they might regain access to the south. But for now, they’re far from that,” said CDM Major Zinyaw, a military analyst.

Observers note that the AA, which currently controls most of Arakan State, must closely monitor junta naval operations and strengthen coastal defenses to prevent further incursions.

With only Kyaukphyu, Sittwe, and Manaung remaining under partial junta control, fierce clashes continue in Kyaukphyu, while Sittwe remains an active front with both sides on high alert.

The Arakan Army has warned local communities in its controlled areas to remain vigilant amid ongoing naval, air, and artillery attacks by the junta in southern Arakan.