Myanmar's military junta has deployed around 1,000 additional troops to defend Sittwe, its last remaining major stronghold in northern Rakhine State, local sources report.

The reinforcements—consisting mostly of newly drafted conscripts—were transported by sea aboard landing craft in recent days and stationed at Light Infantry Battalions 232, 344, and 354.

"The junta navy delivered additional troops to the battalions," a reliable local source said. "Most are new conscripts transported on standard landing craft, though their exact distribution across the city remains unclear."

Alongside ground forces, the military has bolstered its maritime presence, deploying warships near the Shwe Mingan Naval Base.

The buildup comes as the Arakan Army (AA) maintains a tight encirclement around the state capital, prompting the military to erect heavy defensive fortifications throughout the city.

While direct ground clashes in Sittwe Township have temporarily paused, the two sides continue to exchange heavy artillery fire.

In July, the Arakan Army launched exploratory offensive maneuvers near Yaychanpyin Village, just outside the city.

"Fighting remains relatively calm for now, limited to occasional artillery exchanges," a source close to the Arakan Army said. "However, the military's ongoing naval and ground reinforcements strongly indicate that an escalation is imminent."

Military analysts warn that with both sides mobilizing heavy forces in a tense standoff, full-scale fighting could erupt in Sittwe at any moment.