The Myanmar military has launched a major multi-front offensive codenamed "Operation 4926" targeting five regions controlled by the Arakan Army (AA). Still, regime forces have so far failed to make any significant advances, according to local sources and military analysts.

The operation, launched on Sept. 4, spans border areas between Rakhine State and the neighboring Magway, Bago, and Ayeyarwady regions, along with active fronts in Kyaukphyu and Ponnagyun townships.

Despite deploying heavy artillery, airstrikes, naval assets, and troop reinforcements built up since August, junta forces have been unable to capture any AA-controlled territory or outposts.

Fierce fighting has broken out along the Sittwe-Ponnagyun township border, with stray artillery shells landing near downtown Sittwe. In Kyaukphyu Township, regime troops advancing from the Taungmawoo naval base along the Kyaukphyu-Sane Road have encountered stiff resistance from AA forces.

A military analyst monitoring the regional border noted a sharp surge in junta troop deployments and naval maneuvers near Shwethaungyan Beach since mid-August, alongside rising numbers of casualties and desertions among newly conscripted soldiers.

Fighting connected to "Operation 4926" has also spread across the Arakan Mountains, including Mindon Township in Magway Region, as well as Padaung and Pyay townships in Bago Region.

While the junta has not officially announced the operation, pro-regime Telegram channels have heavily promoted "Operation 4926" as a major campaign to retake lost territory in Rakhine State.