On Saturday, the President of the People’s Republic of China inspected a brigade of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Missile Force, urging restraint while emphasizing the need for heightened military readiness. In his address, Xi called on personnel within the Strategic Missile Forces to “resolutely fulfill the tasks assigned by the Party and the people” according to state news agency Xinhua.
The PLA Missile Force, responsible for overseeing China’s conventional and nuclear missiles, has been directed to modernize its nuclear arsenal in response to evolving global conditions, including U.S. missile defense advancements, improved surveillance systems, and strengthened alliances.
Xi underscored the importance of “adhering to political directives, enhancing mission responsibility” and “advancing the high-quality development of force building” as reported by Chinese media outlet Cailianshe.
Last month, China launched an intercontinental ballistic missile into the Pacific Ocean, drawing heightened international scrutiny on the nation’s expanding nuclear capabilities.
It is also noteworthy that China has been conducting a large-scale anti-corruption campaign within its military since last year, resulting in several missile force generals stepping down from their positions in the national legislature.