A Kachin Independence Army scout on patrol above the Kachin Independence Organization headquarters in Laiza, Kachin State

A new “KA '09” in the hands of a Kachin Independence Army scout on patrol above the Kachin Independence Organization headquarters in Laiza, Kachin State

The Kachin soldiers make most everything they need from locally available materials. Including their own shelters, meals, water containers and everything for cooking and eating. They also make their own uniforms and AK-47's. Their newest model the “KA '09” looks to be a very capable assault rifle.