The use of uncrewed aerial systems (UASs) by non-State armed groups (NSAGs) has become a defining feature of Myanmar’s conflict landscape. Since the February 2021 military coup, Myanmar has recorded one of the highest global rates of UAS use by NSAGs, with these systems playing an increasingly significant role in shaping conflict dynamics across the country.
This report analyses key trends in the use of UASs by NSAGs in Myanmar, with a particular focus on post-coup developments. It aims to provide researchers, policymakers and practitioners with an overview of how these systems have been adopted and employed by various groups across the country, and of their implications for evolving conflict dynamics. It examines the types of NSAGs deploying UASs, the geographical distribution of incidents, as well as the primary targets and impacts of their operations. The report also explores trends in the craft-production, modification and weaponization of these systems, identifying the key factors enabling the rapid adoption and diffusion of UAS capabilities among NSAGs, including the widespread availability of commercial components, access to open-source knowledge, decentralized knowledge-sharing networks and improvised production practices.
By examining the Myanmar case, the report provides insights into the expanding role of uncrewed systems in contemporary armed conflicts. It highlights the challenges that the growing development and use of these systems may pose for existing arms control frameworks, as well as for international security and stability more broadly.
Citation: Joshua Angelo Estrada Bata and Bárbara Morais Figueiredo, “The use of uncrewed aerial systems by non-State armed groups: Exploring trends in Myanmar”. Geneva: UNIDIR, 2026.