Military junta expands and builds new runways in Tanintharyi Region for use of gyrocopters and paramotors

Photo: An Indian student from Bagdogra Air Force school maneuvers a paramotor (AFP) August 3 Mizzima. The military junta is strategically expanding and constructing new runways and renovating old airfields in the Tanintharyi Region to enable the use of gyrocopters, paramotors, and Y-12 aircraft, which can be used for low-altitude aerial attacks, according to a report by the TIDE Information Unit (TIU). This was detailed in TIU's analysis report titled "The Chirping of Fascist Birds," released in June, which examined the use of gyrocopters and paramotors by the military junta in Tanintharyi. The military junta is reportedly preparing airfields at a rate of approximately one per 50-mile radius, and from early 2026, it is expected to utilize high-performance FTC 2000G and JF-17 fighter jets, as well as gyrocopters and powered parachutes (paramotors) which are easier to operate and less costly, along with FPB drones. TIU stated that according to satellite photo records, the military junta began renovation work on Dawei Airport and Myeik Airport in 2022 and 2023. The survey indicates that in addition to expanding and building runways, private airports owned by foreign companies are also being utilized. The report, citing satellite imagery, states that a new runway of approximately 900 meters was constructed at the No. 561 Light Infantry Battalion, under the command of Infantry Battalion (IB) 13, based in Nyaungpin Gyi Village, Tanintharyi Township, starting in April 2026, and was completed by early June. Furthermore, it is known that a new runway of approximately 700 meters was excavated at the No. 2 Naval Training School (Yal-Ya-2) near Kintaung Village in March and was ready for use by May. Additionally, the Ratana Airport (approximately 800 meters) within the Ratana Gas Pipeline project area in Yebyu Township is undergoing renovation and upgrades, and the old Polaw Airport (approximately 700 meters), which has been in existence for decades near Light Infantry Regiment 285 in Polaw Township, is also being renovated, with test flights of gyrocopters commencing on July 1, according to the analysis. The research team has assessed that although gyrocopters require runways of only 90 to 120 meters, the runways being constructed, measuring 700 to 900 meters, are intended to allow even light transport aircraft like the Y-12 to land regularly or in emergencies. These devices, which the military junta is using for acts of terrorism, are used internationally for exploration and recreational purposes. Editor: Aung Kyaw Phyo