August 29, 2024
Justice For Myanmar (JFM) has revealed a global network of companies that have enabled Myanmar’s military junta to acquire French-made Avions de Transport Regional (ATR) aircraft. The junta has been using these planes to commit international war crimes, transporting soldiers and military equipment, as well as conducting aerial reconnaissance and patrol operations.
Despite sanctions from the United States, the European Union, and other international bodies, international companies, private arms dealers, and commercial airlines have continued to facilitate the junta’s acquisition and maintenance of ATR aircraft by concealing the end-user, according to JFM’s investigation.
This network, comprising companies in Myanmar and abroad, has been providing the junta with aircraft parts, maintenance services, and other critical support. Companies such as France’s ATR and Sabena Technics, Austria’s Axis Flight Simulation Systems, and others have been implicated in supplying essential parts and training Myanmar Air Force pilots to operate these aircraft, all in violation of sanctions.
This activity reportedly began in 2018, following the European Union’s sanctions against Myanmar. Myanmar’s Air KBZ, now known as Mingalar Aviation, facilitated the transfer of two ATR aircraft to the junta. Additionally, the International Gateways Group, a private arms dealer, acted as an intermediary to purchase two ATR aircraft from Vietnamese airlines on behalf of the junta.
KT Group, a company with close ties to the military, facilitated the purchase of two ATR aircraft through its subsidiary MWG Limited, based in the British Virgin Islands. Another conglomerate, Htoo Group, has been involved in maintaining at least six ATR aircraft for the junta. Air KBZ has leased out at least two of these aircraft for civilian flights, generating revenue for the junta.
JFM calls for increased sanctions against all companies supporting the junta, including 24 Hour Group, KT Group, Gateway Group, and Htoo Group. The organization urges international governments to immediately block the supply of aircraft parts, maintenance, and training services to Myanmar’s military.
The junta’s air force has used these ATR aircraft extensively for airstrikes, including 21 strikes in northern Shan State, 11 in Sagaing Region, 4 in Chin State, 14 in Rakhine State, 16 in Mandalay Region, 1 in Karenni State, 4 in Bago Region, 2 in Mon State, and 1 in Tanintharyi Region in July 2024 alone. These airstrikes have resulted in the destruction of 122 homes, 6 schools, 8 religious buildings, and 2 hospitals.
