Summary
In Myanmar, the military is using paramotors, which are motor-powered paragliders, to conduct airstrikes in their civil war. A recent attack using a paramotor killed at least 26 people during a festival in the Sagaing region. These paramotors offer a cost-effective way for the military to engage in airstrikes, but they have limitations such as being vulnerable to ground fire.
Key Facts
- Myanmar's military used a paramotor to drop bombs on a group, killing at least 26 people.
- The attack took place during a festival celebrating Thadingyut, the full moon, in the Sagaing region.
- Paramotors can carry a pilot and small bombs, and they are more affordable than traditional aircraft.
- The military began using these attacks notably from December 2024, with multiple incidents reported.
- Paratroopers using paramotors can be trained quickly, and attacks often occur near training bases.
- Paramotors are produced by Myanmar’s state-owned Heavy Industry Number 10.
- The aircraft's noise makes them detectable, and they are typically used at night.
- They are slower and fly lower than traditional aircraft, which makes them vulnerable to being shot down.
