But they are unquestionably brave, and determined to fight on, even if Laiza falls.

BBC: Kachin rebels defiant on Burma's northern front line

It has told our correspondent that it wants the Burmese military to scale back its operations throughout Kachin state and not just around Laiza.

BBC: Burma ceasefire 'holds' in rebel-held Kachin areas

The BBC's Jonathan Head, who had just returned from Laiza, says hundreds of Burmese troops have been involved in the attacks, backed by heavy artillery barrages.

BBC: Kachin rebels in Burma lose key hilltop

If the base falls, there are few defences left to prevent the fall of Laiza, should the Burmese military decide to take it, he adds, and a Burmese military advance would certainly force the flight of many thousands of civilians.

BBC: Burma attack breaks Kachin truce near China border