China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA) is undergoing a significant transformation with the establishment of a new force dedicated to information support in modern warfare. The Information Support Force will work alongside the Military Aerospace Force and the Cyberspace Force, under a new command structure directly reporting to the Central Military Commission.
The Aerospace Force will focus on enhancing space capabilities, crisis management, and governance in space, while the Cyber Force will be responsible for strengthening cyber defense, detecting intrusions, and safeguarding national sovereignty in cyberspace.
Led by Bi Yi, former deputy commander of the SSF, the Information Support Force aims to coordinate the construction and application of network information systems. President Xi Jinping emphasized the force’s critical role in supporting combat operations, integrating information resources, and enhancing joint operation capabilities.
Analysts believe the restructuring will improve the PLA’s situational awareness and information operations, ensuring that critical data remains secure and inaccessible to adversaries. By streamlining functions and enhancing collaboration among different units, the new force is expected to play a vital role in achieving China’s modernization goals by 2027 and becoming a world-class military power by 2049.
Experts point out that specialized forces dedicated to information, intelligence, and electronic warfare are crucial in modern conflicts. The Information Support Force’s close collaboration with the Aerospace and Cyber Forces underscores China’s commitment to accelerating the development of intelligent warfare through the use of advanced technologies like AI.
The PLA’s strategic overhaul reflects its focus on information-driven warfare and the evolving nature of modern conflicts. By delegating the development of new combat forces to a dedicated entity, China aims to strengthen its military capabilities and maintain a competitive edge in an increasingly complex security environment.
As China continues to invest in its military modernization efforts, the establishment of the Information Support Force signals a significant shift in the PLA’s organizational structure and operational capabilities. The new force is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of Chinese military strategy and security posture on the global stage.
