The Royal Nepali Army (RNA) wants to keep its boys ready in case the ceasefire is broken again. Sources tell us that the RNA is equipping its soldiers with M-16 rifles in the insurgency affected districts of Rukum, Rolpa and Salyan. These rifles are used by the security detail who guard the royal palace. The M-16 is comfortable to carry and is fully automatic. The RNA purchased 5,000 American made M-16 last August to replace its ageing SLRs. There are plans to replace all SLR rifles with the A-One version of M-16, all LMG rifles with the A-Two version and all SMG rifles with Colt Commando models. The latest move has been made to modernise the RNA. Officials are convinced the new weapons will boost the morale of the soldiers since the it is lighter and more powerful than the rebels' SLRs.