Myanmar security services shot down seven drones over the military-built capital Naypyidaw on Thursday, the junta said. The military’s ouster of Aung San Suu Kyi‘s government in 2021 sparked renewed fighting with ethnic minority armed groups and pro-democracy “People’s Defence Forces” (PDFs) in areas previously untouched by conflict in Myanmar. Four drones approaching Naypyidaw airport and three drones approaching Zayarthiri township in the capital were successfully shot down and destroyed, with no damage or casualties reported.
Naypyidaw airport was temporarily closed after the incident, according to a source at the airport. One of the drones shot down had been carrying a bomb, which was defused. Pictures released by the junta’s information team showed aftermath of the attack. Outgunned opponents of the junta have turned to flying commercial drones adapted to carry bombs, resulting in devastating effects on military positions. Recent “drop bomb” attacks across Myanmar have displaced junta troops, hit domestic airports, and killed a brigadier-general.
Naypyidaw, located in the center of Myanmar, is home to the military’s top brass and civil servants. The city has seen relative calm despite fighting in other parts of the country. Last week junta chief Min Aung Hlaing oversaw a military parade there, though noticeably smaller than in previous years. The junta has been relying more on air and artillery strikes to support its embattled troops as it loses territory in border areas.
