British troops of 3rd Special Service Brigade land unopposed on a beach on Akyab Island (Sittwe), in the Arakan region of Burma.

A flotilla of landing craft filled with men approach the shore of Akyab Island. A piper plays on an LCA (Landing Craft Assault) as the boats approach Akyab shore. Men disembark from the boats.

Notes

3rd Special Service Brigade included No.5 Army Commando and No. 44 Royal Marine Commando and was attached to XV Indian Corps. Commando forces were responsible for raiding, reconnaissance duties and other special operations often behind enemy lines.

Akyab Island was a strategic target due to its position on the Burma coast and its airfields. These airfields would provide fighter and air supply coverage to support 14th Army's advance through mainland Burma.

For more film relating to the occupation of Akyab, see related items.