Junta deploys naval vessels, steps up military operations in southern Arakan State

By Admin 31 Aug 2026

DMG Newsroom

31 August 2026, Gwa

The military junta is deploying naval vessels alongside ground offensives and airstrikes targeting southern Arakan State townships through Ayeyarwady Region to push into Arakan State, according to military sources.

Currently, the military junta has stationed naval vessels near Ngapali and Kyeintali beaches while conducting nightly drone reconnaissance flights over villages along the coastline.

"In Gwa and Thandwe, the regime has stationed at least six naval vessels near Ngapali and Kyeintali beaches. These include combat warships and auxiliary support vessels. Meanwhile, on the Gwa to Ngathaingchaung road, military columns from Ayeyarwady and Yekyi are preparing for offensives. At night, the military routinely deploys drones to conduct surveillance over villages along the coast and near the Yekyi border," a military source said.

Since July, the military junta has launched heavy airstrikes on Gwa and Thandwe townships, maintaining intense military pressure on the region.

Alongside efforts to penetrate southern Arakan State through Ayeyarwady Region, the military junta is also attempting to approach the area by sea.

On the ground, military sources report that a column from the junta's 101st Light Infantry Division, stationed in Shwe Thaung Yan, Ayeyarwady Region, has been advancing toward Wetthay Village.

"Junta troops are gradually advancing toward Gwa Township in southern Arakan State. They are likely attempting to advance following heavy airstrikes, and relentless air attacks on Taungup and Thandwe townships are expected to continue. Intense ground clashes are likely to erupt near the border of Gwa Township due to military offensives," said Captain Zin Yaw, a military defector.

In response to the military junta's heightened air and naval operations, the Arakan Army has imposed curfew orders in Gwa, Thandwe, and Taungup townships, prohibiting movement between 11:00 PM and 5:00 AM.

The military junta continues its efforts to regain control of Arakan State, deploying overwhelming force across ground, air, and naval fronts.