Myanmar Air Force commissions 10 new aircraft to boost counter-insurgency capabilities

In one of its largest single inductions of combat aircraft in recent years, the Myanmar Air Force (MAF) has commissioned a total of 10 new fixed- and rotary-wing platforms that will further enhance its counter-insurgency capabilities.

The MAF commissioned 10 new aircraft, including two JF-17B multirole fighters, six Yak-130 fighters and two Mi-35P attack helicopters in a ceremony held on 15 December at Meiktila Air Base to mark the 72nd anniversary of the service. (CINCDS)

In a 15 December ceremony held at Meiktila Air Base to commemorate the 72nd anniversary of the MAF’s founding, the Myanmar military’s (Tatmadaw’s) commander-in-chief, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, presided over the commissioning of two JF-17 ‘Thunder’ multirole fighters, six Yakolev Yak-130 ‘Mitten’ advanced jet-trainers/light attack aircraft, and two Mil Mi-35P ‘Hind’ helicopter gunships.

The MAF commissioned 10 new aircraft on 15 December, all of which are expected to boost the service’s counter-insurgency capabilities. (CINCDS)

All three types of the newly inducted aircraft are already in MAF service.

The high-profile ceremony was also attended by MAF commander-in-chief Lieutenant General Maung Maung Kyaw and MAF Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Tun Aung, according to state media reports.