Hmawbi Township residents told DVB that the military has been conducting training on the use of combat drones at its No. 5 Air Defense Operations Command Headquarters in Yangon Region since April 28.

“Currently, officers from the military are teaching the classes, but I heard experts from Russia will come to teach,” said an anonymous source from the military.

The Burma Army has been accelerating its use of combat drones during military operations in Mon and Karen states. Chinese-made drones were identified during the fighting in Myawaddy and Kawkareik townships.

The regime stated that its officials, including the regime Minister of Home Affairs Yar Pyae, visited Russia and China April 11-30 to purchase combat drones.

“High-ranking officials are learning drone technology from Russia, as well as air defense and aviation. Troops involved in [all military] operations are being taught by these officials,” added the source.