This footage depicts KNLA rebels known as the "Cobra Column" firing on Junta/government forces in Myanmar.

A Cobra Column machine gunner and his assistant move out onto a roof, taking an elevated, braced position atop a roof access. From this position, the gunner fires on Junta forces while being supplied reloads by his assistant, the cameraman. Like many videos of the Cobra Column in action, this video shows more of the firing, and not what is being fired upon. This probably owes to a lack of GoPro-like recorders available, but it does give recordings of this conflict a dated feel, almost like that of the IRA in the 1980s-90s.

At 02:05, the gunner vacates his position. He then reloads and begins firing from a standing, unsupported position at the Junta forces. at 3:07, the gunner switches to full auto; interestingly enough, he has been shooting semi-automatic until this point. He leans into the recoil, emptying the drum magazine in a few bursts before crouching to reload.

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.