On Friday, China unveiled a new military cyber unit, which it claims will enhance its ability to “fight and win” wars.
The Information Support Force—This unit is a “key support for coordinated development and application of network information systems,” according to Defense Ministry spokesperson Wu Qian.
In recent years, China has invested heavily in modernizing its military, amid growing tensions with the United States and other regional forces.
Since assuming power ten years ago, President Xi Jinping has also made efforts to tighten his grip on the military.
The establishment of this cyber force marks “a strategic step to establish a new system of services and arms and improve (China’s) modern military force structure”,
Wu did not provide specific details regarding the new corps’ functions but highlighted its significant role in fostering high-quality development and its critical capability in contemporary warfare.
At a significant ceremony in Beijing, Xi “offered warm congratulations” to the new unit, as reported by state broadcaster CCTV.
Xi Jinping addresses troops in a military ceremony
During the event, which featured military marches, footage showed the Chinese leader clad in khaki military dress addressing a beaming cohort of officers in full regalia at an event enlivened by marching songs.
Xi described the creation of the force as “a crucial decision” made by the senior leadership of the Communist Party, aiming to refine the military force system with distinct Chinese characteristics, CCTV reported.
Xi emphasized the importance of the military’s unwavering loyalty to the Communist Party, insisting on complete adherence to the core principles and systems governing the party’s absolute command over the military.
China’s territorial claims include the self-governed island of Taiwan, which the United States has pledged to support in defense efforts.
Beijing also contentiously lays claim to almost the entire South China Sea, several islands also claimed by Japan, and areas along its ill-defined border with regional rival India.