Myanmar junta regains ground with Chinese support, using airstrikes to crush rebels
Myanmar’s military junta has regained several key territories in recent months, reversing major losses from last year’s insurgent offensive with the help of Chinese backing, drone warfare, and intensified airstrikes that have devastated towns and displaced thousands.
The reversal follows Operation 1027, launched in October 2023 by the Brotherhood Alliance — a coalition of three powerful ethnic armies — which captured around 180 military bases in northern Shan State and threatened to topple the regime. But the junta, aided by new military technology and Chinese-supplied drones, has since recaptured major towns including Kyaukme and Hsipaw.
Analysts say Beijing’s growing influence has played a decisive role. China has strengthened ties with the regime, providing diplomatic support, security cooperation, and pressure on ethnic armies to scale back their offensives. Several groups, including the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army, have reportedly withdrawn from key areas under Chinese mediation.
The junta’s renewed air power, combined with a nationwide conscription drive that has added tens of thousands of troops, has helped it reclaim control over key border routes and trade corridors. However, large parts of Myanmar remain under rebel control, and the military’s plan to hold elections in December — excluding Aung San Suu Kyi’s banned party — has been widely dismissed as a bid to legitimize its rule.
Despite recent gains, the conflict has left more than three million people displaced and over 100,000 homes destroyed. Observers say peace remains distant as the junta continues to rely on force and foreign backing to maintain power.
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