The weapons factories in Burma, particularly those located in Magway and Bago provinces, face an increasing threat of falling into the hands of opposition forces. In December, following the attack on the Air Force Base, these critical military infrastructure points came within striking distance of Air Force One.
Burma is home to 25 weapons factories: 15 in Magway, 7 in Bago, 2 in Nay Pyi Taw, and 1 in the mainland. Most of these facilities were strategically built on the west bank of the Irrawaddy River during Ne Win’s era. This location was chosen to prevent potential capture by enemies advancing from the east. However, the situation has shifted, and with opposition forces now approaching from the west, this strategic advantage is at risk.
Notably, the Ann-Padaung highways are increasingly under the control of the Arakan Army (AA). Should revolutionary groups seize these weapons factories, it would provide a significant boost to their capabilities, potentially accelerating the momentum toward a decisive victory in the ongoing revolution.
These developments underscore the precarious position of military infrastructure in the region. If opposition forces succeed, it could mark a transformative moment in Burma’s struggle for freedom, highlighting the urgent need for the current regime to reassess its strategies.
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