People's Liberation Army

China Emblem PLA

People's Liberation Army Flag of the People's Republic of China

Danghui

中华人民共和国国徽

PLA Enters Peking

Chinese troops leaving Korea

People's Liberation Army (PLA) is the armed forces of the People's Republic of China (PRC) and the armed wing of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). Established on August 1, 1927, during the Nanchang Uprising, the PLA is one of the world's largest military forces, with over two million active-duty personnel. The PLA consists of five major service branches: the Ground Force, Navy, Air Force, Rocket Force, and the Strategic Support Force.

History

The origins of the PLA trace back to the Nanchang Uprising of 1927, which marked the beginning of the Chinese Civil War between the CCP and the Kuomintang (KMT). After decades of conflict, the PLA emerged victorious in 1949, leading to the establishment of the People's Republic of China. Since then, the PLA has been involved in several military conflicts and operations, including the Korean War, the Sino-Indian War, the Sino-Vietnamese War, and various border skirmishes.

Structure

The PLA is governed by the Central Military Commission (CMC), which ensures the CCP's absolute leadership over the military. The CMC is chaired by the General Secretary of the CCP, who is also the President of the PRC, making them the supreme leader of the armed forces.

Ground Force

The PLA Ground Force is the largest component of the PLA and is responsible for land-based military operations. It is organized into several group armies, each comprising infantry, armor, artillery, and support units.

Navy

The PLA Navy (PLAN) is tasked with naval warfare and operations. It operates a range of surface ships, submarines, and naval aircraft, and is increasingly focusing on blue-water capabilities to protect China's maritime interests.

Air Force

The PLA Air Force (PLAAF) is responsible for air defense and offensive air operations. It maintains a large fleet of fighter jets, bombers, transport aircraft, and drones.

Rocket Force

The PLA Rocket Force (PLARF) controls China's strategic missile forces, including nuclear and conventional ballistic missiles. It plays a critical role in China's deterrence strategy.

Strategic Support Force

The PLA Strategic Support Force (PLASSF) is a newer branch focused on space, cyber, and electronic warfare, enhancing the PLA's capabilities in information warfare.

Modernization and Reforms

Under the leadership of Xi Jinping, the PLA has undergone significant reforms aimed at improving its ability to conduct joint operations across different branches, enhancing its combat readiness, and modernizing its equipment. These reforms include restructuring the command organization, investing in advanced technology, and reducing the number of personnel to create a more agile and technologically adept force.

Role in Society

Beyond its military duties, the PLA also engages in various domestic roles, including disaster relief, infrastructure projects, and participation in social and economic development. The PLA's influence extends into political and social realms, reflecting its integral role in Chinese society and governance.