The Myanmar military, under the State Administrative Council (SAC), launched an airstrike near Mong Ngaw town in Kyaukme Township, northern Shan State, at around 1:00 p.m. on July 15, according to local sources.

The strike targeted an area near the bridge leading to Manpint Village, which is under the control of the Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA). Initial reports indicate no casualties, and only minor damage was sustained. “The bomb did not hit the main town bridge, but the one near Manpint Village. It’s still passable,” a Mong Ngaw resident told SHAN.

This latest incident marks the third aerial attack near Mong Ngaw since May. Previous strikes targeted Tarlong Village, including a school, as well as surrounding communities.

Meanwhile, SAC ground troops advancing from Nawnghkio (Naung Cho) have reportedly pushed into urban areas and escalated operations. Since July 12, drone strikes have hit villages beyond the Gote Hteik Viaduct, displacing residents from at least six communities. Many have fled to Nawng Ping Village for safety.

In a further escalation, the military destroyed the Gote Twin Bridge on July 12, cutting off a vital transport link between Kyaukme and Nawnghkio.

From June 24 to July 15, the military carried out at least seven airstrikes in Kyaukme Township and two in Hsipaw Township. Local humanitarian groups report that these attacks have killed at least 12 civilians and injured more than 30 others.

Analysts and civil society organizations warn that the intensified aerial campaign may be part of a broader strategy to assert territorial dominance ahead of possible negotiations with ethnic armed organizations. As the conflict escalates, civilians continue to suffer the most, with displacement and casualties mounting across northern Shan State.