Myanmar Witness confirmed on June 23 that two new Y-8 transport aircraft bearing Myanmar military air force insignia have been discovered at Kunming Airport in China. The aircraft are identified as Shaanxi Y-8F-200W strategic transport aircraft with tail numbers 5923 and 5924. Both aircraft are in new condition and feature military air force markings with previously unseen tail numbers.
The military council had previously begun using a Y-8F-200W with tail number 5922 in December 2024, and these newly discovered aircraft follow in sequential numbering. The military council’s air force has been prioritizing the acquisition of Y-8 aircraft in particular as part of their military aircraft fleet expansion. These aircraft are primarily used for transporting military equipment, troops, and conducting logistics operations. The discovery indicates the military council’s continued efforts to enhance their air force capabilities despite ongoing civilian resistance.
According to international military observers, the military council currently possesses at least seven Y-8 transport aircraft in their fleet. The discovery of these two additional aircraft represents part of the military council’s efforts to strengthen their air power. Military analysts point out that this expansion poses increased risks of aerial attacks against People’s Defense Forces and ethnic armed organizations, as the military council continues to build its air capabilities for operations against resistance forces. The acquisition of these new transport aircraft significantly enhances the military council’s logistical and operational capacity in their ongoing campaign against civilian resistance.
