Xi’s show of force declares China’s battle readiness to the world
Parade of equipment and troops shows PLA is modernising and improving its readiness for war
China’s massive display of military might on Sunday sent a clear message to the army, the country and the world that the PLA under its commander, President Xi Jinping, is quickly modernising and improving its readiness for war.
The event in Zhurihe in Inner Mongolia, to mark this Tuesday’s 90th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Liberation Army, had none of the ceremony usually associated with a military parade in China. It was done with the troops in battle dress to remind them that the world’s largest army must embrace changes and be ready for battle, analysts said.
Xi, in a camouflage uniform, told the troops to “be ready to assemble at the first call and be capable of fighting and winning any battle”.
The parade showcased what Xi has done to improve China’s military since he took power five years ago, and it underlined his vision of the army’s role in the country’s future as China aggressively tries to boost its regional and even global clout.
“I firmly believe that ... our heroic army has the confidence and capabilities to maintain the nation’s sovereignty, security and development interests,” Xi said.
