The Junta has designated Pyin Oo Lwin, home to crucial military academies, as an “unyielding fortress” for the frontlines of northern Shan State, intensifying its preparations for defense in the area, a military source reported on June 26.
Since June 25, in an effort to bolster these defenses, the Junta has deployed Mi-35 attack helicopters and fighter jets to Anesakhan Airport in Pyin Oo Lwin, while also urgently replenishing supplies of ammunition, the source said.
Anti-drone jammers have also been installed at the Defense Services Academy (DSA), Defense Services Technological Academy (DSTA), Technology research Institute and the state guesthouse within the Defense Services Administration School compound.
All Junta forces in downtown areas and outskirts have also been placed on high alert, ready for combat.
“The drones purchased from Russia are probably deployed around the Technology Research Institute and the waterfall area”, the source also suggested.
In April, the Junta acquired drones from Russia designed to evade jammers, which the source added are highly effective in battlefield reconnaissance.
Currently intense fighting is underway in Nawnghkio (Naungcho), located just 35 miles from Pyin Oo Lwin. The Ta'ang (Palaung) National Liberation Army (TNLA) has begun to seize control of the town, raising the possibility of complete takeover in coming days.
TNLA has also seized control of several villages along the route to Pyin Oo Lwin, posing a direct threat to the town, considered a regional stronghold of the Junta.
A resident of Pyin Oo Lwin, with close ties to the Junta troops in the town, reported that on June 25, regime soldiers stationed at the 1000-Acre agriculture park were firing artillery towards areas where heavy fighting was taking place in Nawnghkio.
“Yesterday, artillery support was provided from the 1000-Acre agriculture park. Numerous guard outposts are positioned on the outskirts of Pyin Oo Lwin. If the fighting approaches the town, the Junta has already designated key defensive points within the town. Preparations for defense, particularly in high-rise buildings, monasteries, and residential areas, may already be underway”, he said.
As of June 26, Pyin Oo Lwin remained calm, although war-displaced persons from Kyaukme and Nawnghkio were steadily arriving to seek refuge in the town.
“Since yesterday, some retired generals and wealthy individuals have already left Pyin Oo Lwin. War-displaced people are continuing to arrive to the town. Overall, Pyin Oo Lwin’s situation is still normal”, the source added.
Following renewed clashes in northern Shan State, should the Junta face defeat on those frontlines, it would urgently need to defend the Mandalay plains. Therefore, preparations for a steadfast defense in Pyin Oo Lwin are underway to safeguard this strategically vital region. While locals express concern over the situation, the exodus from the town remains minimal.
