(Yangon, 8th) – Senior Myanmar military leader Min Aung Hlaing attended a ceremony yesterday at the Naypyidaw Air Force Base, marking the commissioning of new Tatmadaw Air (Myanmar Air Force) aircraft and helicopters. He stressed that the new equipment would significantly improve Myanmar’s airspace control, defense capabilities, and national security.
General Min Aung Hlaing commended the Tatmadaw Air Force for its effective use of aviation resources in executing missions, and pointed out that under the current international and domestic circumstances, air power—including aircraft, helicopters, drones, and unmanned aerial vehicles—is crucial for operations and national defense. He emphasized the need for continuous modernization of the air force, implementing both short-term and long-term plans to ensure the nation possesses strong air combat capabilities.
The ceremony noted that from 2011 to 2025, the Tatmadaw Air Force has held 15 equipment commissioning ceremonies in total, and has carried out upgrades to existing aircraft to enhance their performance. General Min Aung Hlaing emphasized that air power relies on technological advancement and that the air force must continuously assess technological progress to bolster its combat strength.
He also mentioned that Myanmar is preparing to hold a free, fair, multi-party general election as anticipated by the people, with the new government to fulfill its national responsibilities in accordance with democratic standards. At the same time, some domestic and foreign organizations are attempting to undermine the elections, with terrorists attacking national and private facilities to seize temporary control of certain areas. The Tatmadaw will continue to cooperate with the public in defense and control efforts to ensure national stability and development.
General Min Aung Hlaing pointed out that the newly commissioned aircraft and helicopters must be properly operated and maintained to demonstrate a high standard of air force performance. He also called for continuous study of international relations, geopolitics, and technological development to keep enhancing operational capabilities.
The ceremony report was delivered by Air Force Commander-in-Chief General Tun Aung, Air Force Chief of Staff General Zaw Win Min announced the official commissioning of the new equipment, and presented a model souvenir to General Min Aung Hlaing. Various types of aircraft and helicopters then conducted skills demonstrations, including Mi-17, Eurocopter, Bell-206, H-125 helicopters, MTX-1B and MTX-A reconnaissance aircraft, Grob-120 TP trainer, ATR-72 cargo aircraft and Beech-1900D, and K-8, MiG-29, and Su-30 SME fighter jets performed aerial displays in different formations.