Regime conducts air operations over Arakan State from four airbases

By Admin 30 Apr 2026

DMG Newsroom

30 April 2026, Mrauk-U

According to Ex-Regime Airforce (ERA), an air monitoring group, the military regime is conducting sustained air operations against townships in Arakan State using four key airbases, as part of efforts to exert pressure on local populations.

ERA released a statement on April 28 warning of continued air threats across the state.

The report identifies Tada-U, Meiktila, Nay Pyi Taw, and Magway as the primary airbases used to launch widespread airstrikes.

Residents reported that on April 29, the regime carried out coordinated airstrikes near the Min Creek Bridge on the border of Ponnagyun and Sittwe townships, as well as on Mosel Island in Rathedaung Township.

The regime is intensifying efforts to reclaim territory lost to revolutionary forces, increasingly relying on air power to target both contested and surrounding areas.

ERA noted that while the Arakan Army controls 14 out of 17 townships in Arakan State, as well as Paletwa Township in Chin State, the regime is deliberately targeting civilians with bombing campaigns, mirroring tactics previously used in northern Shan State.

The report also states that the regime has shifted from deploying single aircraft to launching coordinated strikes with multiple jets, dropping large volumes of bombs simultaneously.

Despite inviting ethnic armed organizations, including the Arakan Army and People’s Defence Forces (PDFs), to peace talks within 100 days, the regime continues to escalate attacks on the ground.

“While the regime is calling for political dialogue and a ceasefire, it is simultaneously carrying out continuous airstrikes,” said an Arakanese human rights activist. “This sends a clear message: negotiate or face ongoing attacks. As long as their demands are unmet, civilians will continue to suffer.”

Airstrikes on non-military targets, including homes, religious buildings, hospitals, and schools, have led to a rising civilian death toll.

On April 19, jet fighters carried out two airstrikes in a single day on a monastery in Kyaukselpyin Village, Mrauk-U Township, injuring 13 civilians, including monks, and destroying the building.

On the same day, airstrikes also hit a sub-power station in Ponnagyun and villages including Yayphyukan and Hngetgyikyun, killing one civilian.

Residents say the constant threat of airstrikes has severely impacted daily life, including education, livelihoods, and mental well-being.

“They no longer come with just a single jet. Aircraft now arrive in groups for both reconnaissance and bombing,” said a resident of Mrauk-U. “We no longer feel safe, even at night.”

Flight times highlight rapid strike capability

ERA also provided estimated flight times from key airbases, highlighting the speed at which aircraft can reach Arakan State.

Magway Airbase poses a particularly high risk due to its proximity, with jet fighters capable of reaching Ann Township in as little as six minutes.

ERA cautioned that actual flight times may vary depending on terrain, weather conditions, and payload.

Local organizations are urging civilians to take precautions, including avoiding crowded areas, digging bomb shelters, and educating children on emergency response measures.

According to DMG data, at least 491 civilians have been killed and 839 injured in regime airstrikes in Arakan State between April 2024 and April 2026.

Many survivors have suffered severe injuries or lost property and remain in urgent need of assistance.