China has unveiled the establishment of a new military cyber corps, emphasizing its role in enhancing Beijing’s capability to “fight and win” in wars, according to a statement from the defense ministry spokesperson, Wu Qian.
Named the Information Support Force, it will serve as a pivotal component for the coordinated advancement and application of network information systems, Wu declared.
Amid escalating tensions with the United States and other regional powers, China has allocated substantial investments toward modernizing its armed forces in recent years.
Under President Xi Jinping’s leadership over the past decade, efforts to centralize control over the military have intensified.
Wu asserted that the creation of the new cyber force marks “a strategic measure to establish a novel system of services and arms, enhancing (China’s) contemporary military force configuration.”
Although specifics regarding its functions were not disclosed, Wu emphasized the corps’ significant role in advancing high-quality development and ensuring prowess in modern warfare.
State broadcaster CCTV reported that President Xi Jinping conveyed his enthusiastic congratulations on the force’s establishment during a grand ceremony held in Beijing on Friday.
Footage depicted the Chinese leader donning khaki military attire as he addressed a jubilant gathering of officers adorned in full regalia, accompanied by marching anthems.
Xi underscored that the force’s inception constituted “a crucial decision” made by the highest echelons of the ruling Communist Party to “refine the modern military force system with distinctive Chinese characteristics,” as per CCTV.
“We must unwaveringly adhere to the party’s directives, fully implementing the fundamental principles and systems of the party’s absolute leadership over the military,” Xi emphasized.
China’s territorial assertions encompass its claim over the self-governed island of Taiwan, a commitment to which the United States has pledged its support.
Additionally, Beijing lays controversial claims over nearly the entire South China Sea, alongside disputes with Japan over several islands and contentious areas along its loosely defined border with regional adversary India.
