In a significant escalation of hostilities in Myanmar’s northern Shan State, the Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA) seized control of three junta camps in Momeik town on July 8. This victory marks the beginning of a broader offensive aimed at capturing Momeik, Kyaukme, and Mogok Townships, with additional attacks reported in Theinni, Tantyan, and Lashio Townships.
Following a nearly two-week-long siege, the TNLA successfully overran the junta’s 606th artillery battalion near Naungcho on July 10. Lcal media reports state that the operation resulted in the TNLA gaining control of the area and capturing a truck-mounted multiple rocket launch system along with 600 other weapons, including anti-aircraft missiles.
After their victory at Naungcho, TNLA forces pursued fleeing junta troops from Battalion 606, resulting in at least 20 enemy casualties and the capture of additional weapons. Despite being offered the chance to surrender, the junta troops chose to fight. The TNLA has now extended its operations to Tantyan Township, over 100 km southeast of Lashio, marking their furthest advance from their home territory and bringing them closer to Kokang and Wa areas.
In a surprising development, the United Wa State Army (UWSA) has taken control of junta-held territory for the first time. According to Myanmar Now on July 10, UWSA deployed 2,000 troops to surround Tantyan town and reportedly negotiated a peaceful takeover with junta forces, claiming the move was to “protect” the town from nearby conflicts. This is only the second town the UWSA has accepted, following a handover from the Kokang in November.
The Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA), also known as the Kokang Army, has launched attacks within Lashio city, the capital of northern Shan State, and is now advancing into Mongyai Township, south of Lashio. The Kokang forces have published rules of engagement to protect civilian lives and property and are offering cash rewards to junta troops and officers who defect.
The Kachin Independence Army (KIA) has joined forces with TNLA, Mandalay, and Kokang groups in the ‘Shan Man’ operation. On July 11, they occupied a junta camp in Thabeitjin Township, northern Mandalay Region, alongside allied People’s Defense Forces (PDFs).
Arakan Army’s advances in Rakhine State
The Arakan Army (AA) has made significant strides in Rakhine State. On July 5, they captured junta positions near Thandwe-Ngapali airport and buried 400 junta soldiers killed in the battle. According to the Ayeyarwaddy Times By July 9, the AA had seized the last junta camp in Thandwe Township, securing control over the area and capturing numerous weapons.
In Maungdaw town, the AA overran a junta base on July 6, finding 350 dead junta soldiers. A subsequent attack on July 11 led to over 100 junta troops fleeing to Bangladesh. The conquest of Maungdaw is nearly complete, marking the last significant holdout in northern Arakan State. The AA has also surrounded the regime’s western command HQ in Am town, cutting off their supplies.
These coordinated offensives by ethnic armed groups in northern Myanmar signify a dramatic shift in the ongoing conflict, challenging the junta’s control over key territories. The outcomes of these battles not only reshape the strategic landscape but also underscore the resilience and tactical acumen of the ethnic forces against the military regime.
