Military tensions escalate in Sittwe as Myanmar Navy boosts reinforcements

By Admin 18 May 2026

DMG Newsroom

18 May 2026, Sittwe

Military tension is reportedly high between the regime and the Arakan Army (AA) on the Sittwe battlefield as Myanmar’s military regime has recently reinforced its forces from Kyaukphyu to Sittwe using warships.

In recent days, two Myanmar Navy warships docked in Sittwe and reinforced military forces, while naval movements near areas controlled by the Arakan Army, drone surveillance, and airstrikes have also been reported.

“The regime is reinforcing and preparing. They are reinforcing manpower and weaponry from Kyaukphyu using warships, and junta warships are moving up and down. There is surveillance with drones and attacks with suicide drones. Recently, scout drones have been flying around a lot, so I think the battle could become intense,” said a ground source familiar with the situation.

The regime is continuously conducting aerial surveillance over Rathedaung, Ponnagyun, and Pauktaw townships on the border of Sittwe Township, while two junta warships are moving along the Kaladan River to display military presence.

In recent days, two junta warships transported hundreds of soldiers by water from Kyaukphyu to Sittwe to reinforce military strength.

In Sittwe, the regime has tightened security and is reportedly carrying out daily inspections of homes under the pretext of checking overnight guest lists.

“Junta officials check overnight guest lists every day. They only rest on rainy days. At ViewPoint Beach, they have also installed new fence posts and heavily fortified security. Therefore, local residents are worried about when the fighting will intensify,” said a local woman in Sittwe.

Since Sittwe is the only remaining city in northern Arakan State yet to be captured by the Arakan Army, observers believe clashes could intensify due to the regime’s reinforcements and the military situation of the Arakan Army.

Analysts also believe that the Arakan Army could launch efforts to capture Sittwe during the upcoming monsoon season amid the ongoing military buildup by both sides.

“During the monsoon season, the movements of junta warships and aircraft could decrease, so fighting is likely to intensify soon. Arakan Army chief Maj-Gen Twan Mrat Naing has also stated that regime-held towns in Arakan State will be seized by 2027, so the battle in Sittwe could become intense. Therefore, Sittwe has become strategically important for both sides, and we are likely to see major clashes,” said a military and political observer in Arakan State.

Sittwe is strategically important for both sides because the India-funded Kaladan Project, Bangladesh border trade, and various foreign interests are based there.

Fighting remains intense between the regime and the Arakan Army in Kyaukphyu Township, where the regime is reportedly providing heavy fire support by air and sea.