Modern combat system basis of strong military

Addressing the 13th National People's Congress, China's top legislature, on the last day of its first session on March 20. President Xi Jinping, also chairman of the Central Military Commission, said a modern combat system with Chinese characteristics should be established to safeguard national security.

China needs a modern combat system to build world-class combat capability under the leadership of the Communist Party of China, by integrating advanced theories, efficient operation, a strong military, a powerful mechanism, comprehensive safeguards and great mobilization power. That such a system must be under the Party's leadership is the defining feature of socialism with Chinese characteristics and the cornerstone of the People's Liberation Army.

Advanced military theories in the new era of socialism with Chinese characteristics should be innovative, keep up with the times, combine the practical experiences of the PLA by applying information and communications technology (ICT) and deepening military-civilian integration. The theories should help the military to improve future warfare based on ICT. Thus, a more unified mechanism will be established with highly coordinative forces and overall sustainable support to accelerate the pace of and add power to various approaches.