Regime increases naval movements in Arakan State

By Admin 24 Apr 2026

DMG Newsroom

24 April 2026, Ramree

Local residents report that the military regime has recently increased its naval movements using warships along the waters of Ramree and Taungup townships, which are currently controlled by the Arakan Army.

The junta navy has been navigating close to the shore and firing heavy artillery along its route, causing distress to civilians living in areas adjacent to the warships' path.

Residents said that on April 21 and 22, warships operated near Kaleintaung Island and Phaungkhar Island in Taungup Township, where they also launched artillery strikes.

"Because of the constant movement of junta warships, fishermen traveling from Ramree toward Kaleintaung Island have had to stop all operations. Even before this, there was fear because the Myanmar Navy would conduct inspections if they encountered fishermen. Now that there is actual firing, everyone from Kyauknimaw Village who sets fishing nets has had to stop," said a fisherman in Ramree.

Due to the warships maneuvering and firing heavy weapons between Saku Island in Ramree and Taungup, nearly 100 residents from Kaleintaung and Phaungkhar islands have fled to Taungup.

Having lost control of most territories in Arakan State and being unable to advance through ground offensives, the regime has turned to using air and naval power for its military operations.

While analysts observe that airstrikes have been effective for the regime, they suggest that launching a successful offensive from the sea remains difficult.

"Based on what we see, the naval groups consist mostly of destroyers and frigates. They are positioned to operate in offshore waters but face difficulties approaching nearshore areas. To reach the coast, they would need to use landing craft. Since southern Arakan State is a coastal region and the regime has lost its grip on the state, they lack the capability for ground offensives. They are simply attacking from wherever they can use naval and air power," said Captain Zin Yaw, a participant in the Civil Disobedience Movement CDM.

The regime is currently launching offensives from three different military commands in an attempt to regain control of Arakan State, increasing airstrikes while also trying to mount a naval offensive.

These intensified attacks across land, air, and sea follow a statement by the chief of the Arakan Army, who vowed to capture the entire Arakan State before 2027.