Projectile event in Nga Pyi Kyun area, Myanmar on Sun 18th October 2026

Myanmar junta forces have launched a renewed offensive on Ngapyi Island, a strategic landmass in the Kaladan River within Wirathani (Pauktaw) Township, near the state capital of Sittwe. The military deployed a significant armada for the assault, including naval vessels, landing craft, and speedboats.

Frontline reports indicate that junta forces suffered heavy casualties after being intercepted by the Arakan Army (AA). According to military sources, a force of over 200 junta troops began approaching the shores of Ngapyi Island at approximately 5:00 AM on October 18, 2026.

A local source informed Narinjara News that intense fighting erupted before the junta troops could even reach the shoreline, as AA forces were lying in wait. This pre-emptive interception resulted in severe losses for the regime forces.

"The troops emerged from the water onto the shore, while some arrived via speedboats," the source said. "The AA’s coastal defense unit was fully prepared, targeting them with drones and heavy artillery. Many bodies of the junta soldiers were swept away by the river current."

The source added that the Arakan Army successfully lured the junta forces into a carefully prepared kill zone. Trapped and pinned down, the regime troops were subjected to a barrage of drone strikes, heavy artillery, and small-arms fire, leaving at least 50 junta soldiers dead.

Despite the heavy casualties, the military provided intense fire support, including airstrikes, naval bombardment, and long-range heavy artillery, which eventually allowed a segment of the landing force to establish a foothold on Ngapyi Island.

"The junta forces managed to land some troops. Fighting between the two sides has been ongoing all day, and six junta naval vessels are positioned nearby, continuing to provide support with drones and heavy artillery," the source stated on the day of the assault.

This marks the third major amphibious assault on the island this month. On October 7, the coup-installed military launched its first amphibious operation to seize Ngapyi Island under heavy air cover. They were forced to retreat about a week later after suffering significant casualties and seeing several warships damaged.

Subsequently, the military launched a second offensive on October 9, successfully landing troops on the island. However, the Arakan Army mounted a firm counter-attack, successfully eliminating the threat and securing full control over the entire island by October 15.

According to military sources close to the AA, intense clashes remain underway on the island following this latest landing attempt on October 18.