1. Military Strength:
Myanmar has a larger population (54 million vs. 7.4 million) and a bigger standing military (approximately 350,000 active personnel compared to Laos' 29,000). Myanmar's military is also better equipped and has experience in combating various ethnic insurgencies.
2. Geography:
Laos is a landlocked country, while Myanmar has access to the Bay of Bengal and the Andaman Sea. This gives Myanmar a strategic advantage in terms of naval and air power projection, as well as logistics and supply lines.
3. Resources:
Both countries have natural resources such as minerals and timber, but Myanmar possesses a more diverse economy with significant oil, gas, and agricultural resources. This economic strength can be crucial in sustaining a prolonged conflict.
4. International Support:
Both countries are part of ASEAN, which promotes regional cooperation and peaceful conflict resolution. It's unlikely that other ASEAN members would openly support one side or the other in a bilateral conflict. However, each country may receive varying degrees of diplomatic and economic support from other nations with geopolitical interests in the region.
5. Terrain:
Laos' rugged terrain and dense jungles can hinder the movement of troops and equipment, potentially favoring the defending forces.
Given these factors, Myanmar would likely have the upper hand in a war with Laos. However, it's important to remember that wars are complex and unpredictable, and the actual outcome would hinge on numerous unforeseen circumstances and decisions made during the conflict. It is also worth noting that both nations have peaceful relations and are unlikely to engage in armed conflict.