Military Situation Analysis – May 2025, Sagaing Region
Escalation in the Pace of Attacks
Throughout May 2025, resistance forces intensified operations against the military council’s troops, bases, and patrol units. Tactical methods included ambushes, drone strikes, and improvised explosive device (IED) or landmine attacks. Simultaneously, preparation and consolidation for base seizure operations were observed, particularly targeting regime bases in Pale, Paungbyin, Tanse, Chaung-U, and Myaung Townships.
Drone and Landmine Attacks
Notable drone and landmine attacks were recorded:
- May 15 – Shwebo area
- May 21 – Chaung-U Town
- May 22 – Main road between Salingyi and Yinmarbin
These incidents reportedly inflicted significant casualties on junta troops.
Attacks on Military Headquarters in Monywa and Sagaing
At least two notable attacks occurred on junta military headquarters:
- May 25 & May 31 – Short-range rocket attacks (presumed 107mm) were launched against headquarters in Sagaing and Monywa Towns.
Summary of Significant Armed Clashes
| Date | Impact | Township | Description |
| 02.05.2025 | 2 junta soldiers killed | Kanbalu | Resistance ambush along roadway |
| 05.05.2025 | 6 junta soldiers killed | Salingyi | Attack near Wan Bao Chinese company |
| 08.05.2025 | 3 SNA members killed | Banmauk | Clash between SNA-junta alliance and resistance forces |
| 14.05.2025 | 1 Pyu militia member killed | Kani | Resistance ambush targeting Pyu militia |
| 15.05.2025 | 3 junta soldiers killed | Shwebo | Drone strike near three villages |
| 21.05.2025 | 4 killed incl. military officer | Chaung-U | Drone strike on township administrative office and police |
| 25.05.2025 | Casualties unknown | Monywa | Attack on regional military command |
| 31.05.2025 | Casualties unknown | Sagaing | Attack on No. 33 Light Infantry Division HQ |
Selected Key Armed Engagements
- Resistance Victory over Joint Junta-SNA Forces in Banmauk Township
On the morning of May 6, a joint force of Myanmar junta troops and the Shan Nationalities Army (SNA) clashed with resistance fighters near the border of Naryaka and Setaw Villages in Banmauk Township, Sagaing Region. According to Battalion 4 of Kathar District, the engagement lasted around 30 minutes, resulting in 3 SNA fatalities and the capture of 1 male SNA fighter (in his 20s).
This incident reveals the junta’s tactical use of ethnic allied groups—particularly the SNA—as frontline forces during operations in resistance-dominated territories like Banmauk. SNA members are reportedly frequently captured during such operations.
- Swift Ambushes in Myaung and Shwebo Townships with Weapons Seized
On May 8, a resistance ambush in Myaung Township targeted a patrol group leaving the local police station for a security checkpoint. The attack resulted in 4 junta fatalities, including an officer, and the capture of three rifles. According to the CDSOM (People’s Defense and Security Organization, Myaung Township), the battle lasted less than 10 minutes.
Similarly, on May 15 in Shwebo Township, resistance fighters ambushed junta troops—including a deputy police officer—who had exited the Naungpinhla Agricultural Institute. Two junta personnel were killed. Local sources reported the seizure of one six-chamber revolver and one G-3 assault rifle.
These two incidents demonstrate the growing effectiveness of guerrilla warfare strategies, including sudden ambushes and rapid strikes, employed by resistance groups in southern Sagaing.
- Rocket Attacks on Major Military Headquarters
On May 25 at 6:49 PM, resistance group Brave Warriors for Myanmar launched seven 107mm short-range rockets at the Northwestern Regional Military Command responsible for Sagaing and Chin State. Six rockets reportedly struck the intended target. However, the military council did not release any statements on casualties or damage.
Similarly, on May 31 at 2:20 PM, a short-range rocket attack was launched on the No. 33 Light Infantry Division Headquarters in Sagaing Town. Casualty details remain unknown. These coordinated attacks targeting the military’s key command structures are noteworthy and signal a bold shift in resistance tactics.
Summary Assessment
During May 2025, resistance forces across the Sagaing Region significantly intensified well-coordinated military operations. Targeted assaults on military bases and command centers demonstrate a weakening of the junta’s control and highlight the growing threat posed by the resistance forces. The trend suggests further escalation and enhanced military capacity on the part of the resistance movement in the near term.