Fierce clashes as 200-strong junta column advances on Nat Yay Kan base

By Admin 09 Mar 2026

DMG Newsroom

9 March 2026, Ngaphe, Magway Region

Heavy fighting has intensified along the Arakan-Magway border as a junta column of approximately 200 troops, split into two units, advanced toward the Nat Yay Kan tactical hilltop base, according to military sources.

The regime’s forces are moving along the old Ann-Padan Road, facing intercepting attacks from Arakan Army (AA) and allied forces near Pazi and Gotegyi Villages.

"The military regime is primarily using air support to cover its advance. We are currently in a position to effectively hinder their reinforcing columns," a military source told DMG.

Reports indicate the junta is employing heavy aerial support, including jet fighters, Y-12 transport planes, and drones.

The reinforcement push follows the Arakan Army’s recent capture of an outpost that served as the main exit for the Nat Yay Kan base.

The Padan-based No. 905 Artillery Battalion is reportedly providing ground support with multiple rocket launchers and heavy artillery.

Analysts say the regime is unlikely to relinquish Nat Yay Kan easily, as the base remains the final stronghold securing Ngaphe and the central plains of Magway.

"If the allied forces capture Nat Yay Kan, it would directly threaten military-owned weapons factories (KaPaSa) in Ngaphe and link operations along the Pathein-Monywa highway across Magway, Bago, and Ayeyarwady Regions. This is why the regime is desperate to defend it," a military observer in Arakan State explained.

To hold the base, the regime has mobilized combined forces from Light Infantry Divisions 11 and 99, and Military Operations Commands 10, 14, and 17.

Meanwhile, the Arakan Army and its allies continue operations in Ngaphe in Magway Region, Padaung in Bago Region, and Ingapu, Laymyethna, and Yekyi in Ayeyarwady Region, all along the strategic Pathein-Monywa corridor.