China’s military is undergoing its most significant reorganisation in nearly a decade, including elevating its information, cyber, and space operations. Recently, the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) unveiled the Information Support Force, a strategic branch dedicated to information operations. Its establishment is part of Beijing's broader restructuring efforts aimed at enhancing its modern warfare capabilities.
Setting up the Information Support Force
Defence Ministry spokesperson Wu Qian said the establishment of the Information Support Force was a “major decision” and emphasised its role in promoting high-quality military development and modern warfare capabilities. Additionally, China is elevating the status of its cyber and space units to parallel the newly created Information Support Force.
The Information Support Force, along with the cyber and aerospace forces, falls under the direct command of the Central Military Commission (CMC), China’s top military body. Lieutenant General Bi Yi leads the Information Support Force, with General Li Wei serving as its political representative.
Through trials and exercises, the PLA have found the inter-service coordination too cumbersome for our standard.
— Zhao DaShuai 无条件爱国🇨🇳 (@zhao_dashuai) April 21, 2024
Splitting the SSF into the 3 specialized Independent Arms will allow appropriate specialist units embedded down to the Combined Arms Battalion and Brigade level.
Significance
The move reflects the PLA’s acknowledgement of the importance of information warfare in gaining initiative in conflicts. With these changes, the PLA now consists of four branches and four arms, each with specific roles and responsibilities.
The creation of the Cyberspace Force aims to strengthen China’s cybersecurity defences and protect its national cyber sovereignty. Meanwhile, the Aerospace Force focuses on enhancing China’s capacity to utilise outer space safely and effectively.
China-US Tensions
These military reforms come amid rising tensions between China and the US, particularly in the realm of cybersecurity. The US has accused China of carrying out cyberattacks, including a sweeping cyberespionage campaign targeting critical infrastructure. However, China has repeatedly denied these allegations and accused the US of engaging in cyberattacks against China.
In response to US accusations, China has emphasised its commitment to cybersecurity and denounced what it perceives as “baseless” smears and politicisation of cybersecurity issues. China asserts that it is a victim of cyberattacks and has called for cooperation rather than confrontation in addressing cybersecurity challenges.