Kantarawaddy Times
Following the integration of revolutionary forces based in southern Shan State into the newly formed Tactical 9 of the Karenni National Defense Force (KNDF), the Tactical will now prioritize military operations in southern Shan State, according to Tactical 9’s military strategist Ko Pho Khwar.
“For the Shan-based units, it is necessary to conduct operations in Shan State territory. Moreover, the more effectively we can conduct military operations in southern Shan, the greater the strategic benefits for Karenni in terms of territorial control,” said Ko Pho Khwar, the military strategist of Tactical 9.
Currently, although there have not been major battles between the military junta forces and revolutionary forces in southern Shan State, Tactical 9 is actively participating in battles within Karenni territory, Ko Pho Khwar added.
Southern Shan-based forces, including the Southern Shan Local Revolution Union (SSLRU), Southern Shan local defense forces 1005, 1008, and Special Operation Drone Force (SODF), have merged under the name Shan State Nationalities Defense Force (SSNDF) and joined KNDF’s Tactical 9.
According to a statement released on April 19, the newly organized SSNDF will continue military operations under the command of the KNDF.
“We have announced that we will operate under the KNDF’s COC, so we will continue to cooperate and fight together with the KNDF,” Ko Pho Khwar further stated.
The military training for the reorganized SSNDF/KNDF Tactical 9 began on February 11 and concluded with a graduation ceremony on April 17.
Ko Pho Khwar mentioned that this collaboration aims to build foundational strongholds in southern Shan State, and going forward, further efforts will be made to strengthen cooperation.
