Junta deploys around 1,000 reinforcements to Sittwe

A naval military exercise conducted by the military junta. Photo: cincds

DMG Newsroom

24 August 2026, Sittwe

The military junta has deployed around 1,000 additional troops to defend Sittwe, its sole remaining stronghold in northern Arakan State, according to a reliable source.

The reinforcements were transported by sea in recent days and deployed at Light Infantry Battalions No. 354, 344 and 232 in Sittwe.

"The junta navy delivered additional troops to the battalions. Most of them are newly recruited conscripts transported via standard landing craft. The exact distribution of troops across locations remains unknown," a reliable source said.

In addition to ground reinforcements, the junta has expanded its naval presence, deploying numerous warships near Shwe Mingan Naval Base.

As the Arakan Army maintains its encirclement of Sittwe, the military junta has deployed substantial forces and constructed heavy defensive fortifications within and around the Arakan State capital.

While there are currently no active ground engagements between the military junta and the Arakan Army in Sittwe Township, periodic offensives and exchanges of heavy artillery fire continue.

A source close to the Arakan Army said, "Fighting remains calm for now, limited to occasional exchanges of heavy artillery fire. There are no direct ground contact battles currently. However, the military continues reinforcing its naval and ground presence, indicating a strong likelihood of escalating conflict."

In July, the Arakan Army conducted exploratory offensive maneuvers near Yaychanpyin Village in Sittwe Township.

Military analysts assess that with both sides deploying substantial reinforcements in a tense standoff, heavy fighting could erupt at any moment in Sittwe.