The People’s Defense Force (PDF) Operation Area 1, Tactics 33, and the Mon State Revolutionary Force (MSRF) announced today, August 27, the formation of an allied unit called the “Brotherhood Battalion.”
According to the statement, the two groups formed this battalion because of strong bonds of unity, sacrifice, and trust built during their more than two years of military cooperation as allies.
Tactics 33 and MSRF have been allied since July 14, 2023, when the Drone Offensive began. During these two years, they jointly carried out approximately 40 military operations and participated in at least six attacks to seize military junta camps.
“When we worked as allies, we fought in many battles and achieved significant successes. Later, we wanted to build something even stronger than an alliance—something like a brotherhood. So, both sides agreed to merge in this way,” said Tactics 33 Commander Saw Darko.
Following the formation of the Brotherhood Battalion, PDF Tactics 33 and MSRF will continue joint military operations as before.
“The Brotherhood Battalion marks an initial step toward political and military cooperation between Mon and Tanintharyi forces. Moving forward, we will fight together, well-coordinated and unified,” said spokesperson Mi Tala Nyan from MSRF.
The statement emphasized that in their revolutionary journey, both groups will act with a shared vision, overcome challenges together, and protect each other with their lives.
It also declared that the Brotherhood Battalion is committed to completely eliminating military dictatorship and any form of authoritarian regime and will continue fighting until a genuine federal union is established.
The Mon State Revolutionary Force (MSRF) emerged after the military coup and operates under the political leadership of the Mon State Federal Council (MSFC).
According to a battalion commander, PDF Tactics 33 falls under the National Unity Government (NUG) and commands several battalions, including Daung Battalion 2, YGF, Daung Battalion 3, KBDF, Daung Battalion 4, and other operational units.
Frequent clashes continue between the military junta and revolutionary forces from Mon, Karen, and Dawei areas along Union Highway No. 8 between Kalain Aung and Malwe Taung in Ye Township.
