The shadow National Unity Government (NUG) announced that it has sent over 400 drones to defence forces fighting the junta across the country.

According to a 23 August statement by the NUG the drones, which are used for reconnaissance and propaganda as well as attacking the junta, were funded by contributions from the public.

A representative of the Kyaikhto Revolutionary Force (KRF) explained to Mizzima that in some situations it is better to attack the junta army using drones rather than soldiers as it can avoid casualties to the defence forces. The NUG drones can also carry heavier payloads than commercially available drones.

The KRF representative said: “Our fighters find drones advantageous in situations where there is insecurity and potential ambushes. They provide a safer alternative for us. The weather conditions can occasionally cause losses [of drones]. Our local resistance forces have bought some drones by themselves. There are different types of drones. The last time, we used a drone supplied by the NUG. It is convenient. It can carry heavier loads.”

According to defence force sources, drone operations by defence forces are becoming increasingly common throughout the country.