China’s leader Xi Jinping has ordered the military to develop “new quality combat capabilities,” signaling a focus on artificial intelligence, high-tech advancements, and intelligent warfare. While it is unclear exactly what these capabilities entail, analysts suggest that it includes intelligent combat capabilities and the building of unmanned ships and submarines for military operations support.
Xi’s emphasis on deepening military reforms and promoting innovation aligns with China’s pursuit of emerging strategic capabilities. The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) is expected to accelerate combat operations, streamline tasks such as target discovery and strikes, and enable simultaneous control of numerous unmanned combat vehicles. The first major military power to master this new combat mode will have a significant advantage.
Lawmakers at the National People’s Congress stressed the importance of technology as a core capability to enhance China’s strategic power. They highlighted the development and deployment of drone swarm technologies, which have proven effective in regional conflicts. The future of warfare will rely on the application of advanced technologies such as big data, the Internet of Things, and AI, with China aiming to conduct active research in these fields to secure victory in future battles.
However, the implementation of these “new quality combat capabilities” and their widespread use remain uncertain. China is still exploring how to achieve its goals and define these capabilities accurately. Shifting toward technological warfare will require the military to adapt its training methods and recruit high-tech professionals. The challenge lies in attracting these talents, as they may have better options with foreign companies or private enterprises, rather than joining the People’s Liberation Army (PLA).
Furthermore, Xi stressed the need for coordination in preparing for maritime military conflicts, protecting maritime rights and interests, and promoting maritime economic development. Analysts interpret these statements as indications of China’s aspirations to become a sea-power country and control strategic sea communication lines. Consequently, unmanned autonomous ships will likely play a significant role in the PLA’s future. Unmanned vehicles, including ships and submarines, may be deployed in the vast oceans to support maritime operations and assert control over sea lines of communication.
China’s pursuit of “new quality combat capabilities” and its efforts to become a dominant force at sea highlight its ambitions for military supremacy and strategic control. As technology continues to evolve and shape the future of warfare, China is positioning itself to capitalize on these advancements and secure its position as a formidable global power.
FAQ:
Q: What are China’s “new quality combat capabilities”?
A: China’s “new quality combat capabilities” refer to its efforts to leverage artificial intelligence and high-tech advancements in warfare. These capabilities aim to enhance combat effectiveness, streamline operations, and gain an upper hand in future conflicts.
Q: How does China plan to develop these capabilities?
A: China plans to deepen military reforms, promote innovation, and conduct research in emerging areas such as artificial intelligence, big data, and the Internet of Things. The country also aims to recruit high-tech professionals to adapt its training methods and harness their expertise.
Q: What role will unmanned vehicles play in China’s military operations?
A: Analysts believe that unmanned ships and submarines will be essential in supporting China’s maritime operations and securing control over sea lines of communication. These unmanned vehicles are expected to play a significant role in future warfare scenarios.
Q: How does China envision its maritime military conflicts?
A: China aims to become a sea-power country and control strategic sea communication lines. Its preparation for maritime military conflicts encompasses maritime economic development and the protection of maritime rights and interests.
Sources:
– [Voices of America](https://www.voanews.com/),
– [PLA Daily](https://www.pla.cn/).
Definitions for key terms or jargon used in the article:
1. Artificial intelligence (AI): Refers to the development of computer systems that can perform tasks that would typically require human intelligence, such as visual perception, speech recognition, and decision-making.
2. Unmanned vehicles: Refers to vehicles, such as ships and submarines, that operate without a human crew on board. These vehicles are controlled remotely or autonomously.
3. Drone swarm technologies: Refers to the use of multiple drones working together in a coordinated manner to achieve a specific objective. This technology has proven effective in regional conflicts and can provide strategic advantages in warfare scenarios.
4. Big data: Refers to large volumes of structured and unstructured data that can be analyzed to reveal patterns, trends, and associations. In the context of warfare, big data analysis can assist in decision-making and improving combat effectiveness.
5. Internet of Things (IoT): Refers to the network of interconnected physical devices, vehicles, buildings, and other objects embedded with sensors, software, and network connectivity that enables them to collect and exchange data. In warfare, IoT can facilitate real-time information sharing and enable better coordination of military operations.
Suggested related links to main domain (not subpages):
– Voices of America
– PLA Daily