This short clip shows Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA) troops during their recent assault and capture of Laukkai, Myanmar. Although 40-millimeter grenade launchers and many home-grown variants are in widespread use in the conflict, this footage shows the anti-junta forces taking things slightly old-school. In this case, grenades are cupped onto the barrels of the rifles and then propelled outward and upward by blank cartridges. While they were still in occasional use throughout the Vietnam War, most militaries have phased this delivery system out in favor of dedicated grenade launchers. As much as the Myanmar conflict embraces the new, in drones and MANPADS, the land formerly known as Burma echoes its past, with M1 carbines and rifle grenades still in service.

About the Author

Cole Simms

Cole Simms is an Air Guardsman, NASA enthusiast, police officer, and security contractor with particular experience in austere environments. Outside of work, he volunteers as a Stop The Bleed instructor for area schools. He holds a Bachelor's Degree in Homeland Security and Emergency Management, and blends his knowledge and experience to write analysis for Funker530.

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