17 December 2019

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

by Anthony Davis

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.

In one of its largest single inductions of combat aircraft in recent years, the Myanmar Air Force (M...

Jane's Find unrivaled intelligence, consultancy and advertising solutions to the defence and national security sectors.