Drone Attack in Myanmar: Myanmar’s second-busiest airport, Mandalay International Airport, has been closed for two days, according to security sources who confirmed the development to AFP.
The closure comes just a day after a reported drone attack near the airport, which Myanmar’s military-backed government blamed on pro-democracy rebels. Authorities said the attackers used “suicide drones” to target the airport area.
Airport Closed Until Sunday Citing Maintenance
A security source, who spoke to AFP on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to speak to the media, said Mandalay International Airport had been closed on Friday and would remain shut until Sunday.
Another security official working at a different airport in Myanmar also confirmed the closure, saying the facility was being kept closed until Sunday for maintenance.
Located in central Myanmar, Mandalay International Airport is an important hub for both domestic and international flights. However, civilian aviation monitoring groups have also reported that the airport’s runway is used by military aircraft.
Six Suicide Drones Reportedly Targeted Airport Area
Myanmar authorities said on Thursday that six suicide drones had targeted the airport area.
According to the government, air defense systems were used to intercept the drones and neutralize the explosives they were carrying before they could cause casualties or significant damage.
No deaths or injuries were reported in the attack, although several domestic flights were delayed.
The military-backed authorities blamed the attack on the People’s Defence Forces (PDF), a network of armed groups that emerged following the military coup and supports the broader pro-democracy movement.
Myanmar’s Civil War Intensifies
Myanmar has been embroiled in a devastating civil war since the military overthrew the elected government led by Aung San Suu Kyi in 2021.
The conflict has spread across large parts of the country, with the military fighting a range of armed opposition groups, including People’s Defence Forces and ethnic armed organizations.
Analysts say drones have become an increasingly important weapon for both sides during the conflict. Rebel groups have used drones to attack military positions, while the military has relied on air power, including Russian- and Chinese-made fighter aircraft, to maintain an advantage in several areas.
Human rights organizations have repeatedly accused Myanmar’s military of carrying out airstrikes that have killed or injured civilians.
According to some conflict monitors, more than 100,000 people have been killed since the fighting intensified following the 2021 coup, while millions have been displaced from their homes.
The temporary closure of Mandalay International Airport highlights the growing security risks surrounding critical civilian infrastructure as Myanmar’s conflict continues.
