When we think of the Chinese Army, one of the first questions that come to mind is how much they can get in comparison to other military forces around the world. The Chinese military is one of the largest and most powerful forces in the world and has steadily increased its capability in the recent decades. This article will discuss the size, budget, weapons, and personnel of the Chinese Army.
Size
The Chinese military is one of the largest in the world, with an estimated 2.3 million active duty members and 50 million reservists. It is currently the second largest military force in the world and has the world’s largest active reserve force. The Chinese army operates over 3,179 ground bases, 1,519 air bases, and 13 naval bases, making them one of the most technically advanced forces in the world.
Budget
The Chinese military budget is one of the largest in the world, estimated to be around $204 billion in 2019. This number is dwarfed by the United States, who spend an impressive $717 billion yearly on defence. This figure has been steadily increasing in recent years and is expected to grow even further in the next decade. The Chinese military has implemented spending cuts in recent years and has been developing more cost efficient and innovative technologies to save money.
Weapons
The Chinese Army is equipped with some of the most advanced weaponry in the world. The Chinese military has developed ballistic missiles, nuclear capable submarines, stealth fighter jets, tactical fighter bombers, and state-of-the-art tanks. In addition, the Chinese Army has access to some of the world’s most advanced electronic warfare technology and electronic countermeasure devices. The Chinese Army also has access to sophisticated reconnaissance technology, including satellites and high tech drones.
Personnel
The Chinese military is comprised of personnel with varying levels of education and experience. Both commissioned and non-commissioned officers serve in the army, with a majority of the personnel being conscripts. Over the years, the Chinese government has invested heavily in into the selection, training and equipping of personnel in order to maintain a strong and capable army.
Training
The Chinese military has put a large emphasis on training and modernization. In recent years, the Chinese Army has been devoting a large portion of its budget to advancing its training capabilities. This includes incorporating more rigorous and realistic simulations, digital training systems, and advanced training methods for its personnel.
The Chinese military has also invested heavily in training its personnel to use advanced weaponry and techniques. They have implemented realistic field training exercises that simulate conditions on the battlefield. This has help to ensure that the Chinese Army is prepared for any situation.
Strategy
The Chinese military has a unique strategy for victory, focusing on using tactics that are more cost effective, target strategic objectives, and maximize resources. This strategy focuses on using superior firepower, technological and numerical superiority, and aggressive offensive measures. The Chinese Army has also put an emphasis on researching new weapons and technologies. This strategy has allowed the army to maintain its superiority of its military hardware.
International Presence
The Chinese army has become increasingly active in international military operations. The Chinese Army has participated in a number of peacekeeping operations and has sent troops to assist other countries in times of need. The Chinese Army has recently begun to provide training and equipment to other militaries in order to strengthen their capabilities.
The Chinese Army has also become active in international arms sales. The Chinese Army has sold a variety of advanced military weaponry and equipment to other countries, including the United States. This has allowed the Chinese Army to increase its influence and presence internationally.
Relationships With Other Nations
The Chinese Army has also developed positive relationships with other nations across the globe. The military has been actively engaged in friendly exchanges and has sought to foster strong ties based on mutual respect and understanding. The Chinese Army has also undertaken joint training programs with the militaries of other nations, allowing them to exchanges ideas and strengthen the ties between the two military forces.
Works Cited
“China Military Strength.” Global Firepower, Global Firepower, Feb. 2020,
www.globalfirepower.com/countries-comparison-detail.asp?form=burger&country_id=china.
Hafner-Burton, Emilie M., et al. “Measuring Chinese Military Power: People, Not Ships, Planes, and Missiles.” Journal of Strategic Studies, vol. 42, no. 1, 2018, pp. 102–137., doi:10.1080/01402390.2018.1456053.
Pifer, Steven. “China’s Military Modernization.” Council on Foreign Relations, Council on Foreign Relations, 10 Oct. 2019, www.cfr.org/backgrounder/chinas-military-modernization.
