17 November 2025 – The Myanmar military has significantly escalated its air campaign over the last four days, targeting the Yaw region, southern Kalay township, and Saw areas.
The sustained aerial assaults by the State Security and Peace Commission (SSPC), formerly the State Administration Council (SAC), come amid ongoing heavy clashes between junta forces and local defence groups.
A jet fighter, reportedly operating from Tada-U Air Base, dropped bombs on southern Kalay township in the Sagaing Region, a known hotspot for resistance. Sources from Yaw Alinn Tan indicate that the fierce fighting in southern Kalay and northern Gangaw townships has prompted SSPC to call in further air support.
Earlier today, approximately 1:20 am, an SSPC Y-12 aircraft launched a separate bombing run from Magway Air Base, striking eastern Saw township in the Magway Region.
This wave of attacks began on Friday, 14 November, with jet fighters conducting at least four airstrikes on two separate locations. Subsequent aerial bombardments hit southern Kalay township on 15 November and again yesterday.
Ground operations appear to be driving the air escalation. Local sources confirmed that junta troops, including Pyusawhti (Pro-SSPC militia) members, advanced from Kyun Thar village toward Hman Taw village in Kalay township recently. This troop movement intensified ground clashes, which, in turn, triggered requests for additional air support.
The recent bombings follow earlier strikes last week, including a 7:30 am attack near Saw township and an afternoon bombing in Htilin township at 2:30 pm.
Furthermore, junta aircraft have been observed airdropping vital rations and ammunition to frontline troops operating in the Gangaw, Yaw, and Htilin areas, signaling a major boost in logistical support for ongoing operations.
Local communities in Kalay, Pauk, and Yaw areas have been urged to maintain high alert due to the rising frequency and severity of these aerial assaults.
Casualty figures for the latest attacks remain unconfirmed as assessments continue. – Reporting by Benjamin
