UN reports increase in Myanmar military attacks on civilians using airborne weapons

United Nations investigators report that the Myanmar military has increased its attacks on civilians using airborne weapons. The military is increasingly utilizing drones, motorized paragliders, and gyrocopters to conduct low altitude strikes with unguided explosives, including mortar shells. In the Sagaing region, pilots have reportedly cut engines to glide silently toward targets, reducing the warning time for civilians to find shelter.

Investigators noted that casualties have been worsened by double tap aerial attacks, where a target is struck and then attacked again shortly after to target first responders and those fleeing. The UN mechanism stated that the frequency and intensity of war crimes and crimes against humanity by the military and other armed groups have escalated over the past year. Evidence was also collected regarding sexual violence, torture, and arbitrary detention in military facilities, including cases linked to a 2025 law that criminalizes criticism of elections. One report noted that these attacks rose ahead of elections held in December and January.