SCIO press conference on preparations for V-Day military parade

CCTV:

We've noticed the introduction of the new military structure and branch layout of our armed forces, which will be showcased in this parade. We also saw that the new branch flags were recently released ahead of Army Day on Aug. 1. Could you provide more details on the parade's specific arrangement and design? Thank you.

Wu Zeke:

Thank you for your question. I will answer it. Reform strengthens the military, and a stronger military underpins a stronger country. Since the 18th CPC National Congress, the CPC Central Committee, the Central Military Commission and President Xi have led the most extensive and profound national defense and military reforms since the founding of the People's Republic of China, with unprecedented determination and resolve. The people's armed forces have developed a new command structure, organizational framework, strategic configuration and renewed image, taking firm strides toward building a strong military with Chinese characteristics. Last year, the military restructured to establish the Information Support Force, and made corresponding adjustments to the leadership and management structure of the Aerospace Force and Cyberspace Force. The reform has enabled the PLA to develop a new organizational layout under the leadership and command of the Central Military Commission. It consists of four services: the Army, Navy, Air Force and Rocket Force; along with four branches: the Aerospace Force, Cyberspace Force, Information Support Force, and Joint Logistics Support Force. This new layout represents a significant milestone in advancing the modern military force system with Chinese characteristics.

Therefore, the parade highlights three aspects in its arrangement and design. The first is a more comprehensive military force structure. Just now, I mentioned that the military recently unveiled new branch flags ahead of Army Day. The military flag is the combat banner and emblem of the PLA. The establishment of a complete military flag system symbolizes a more complete military force system. During the parade, the participating formations will carry their respective branch flags along with the People's Armed Police Force flag, representing a comprehensive display of our military's capabilities. Second, there is a greater presence of new domains and new quality combat capabilities. In addition to the four strategic branches represented in the foot formations which embody these new-domain and new-quality combat capabilities, we have also specifically arranged new combat units within the equipment formations, including unmanned systems, underwater forces and cyber-electronic force. Third, the armed forces system is more comprehensive. The parade will feature not only active PLA forces but also the armed police, reserves and militia, forming a three-tiered force structure with Chinese military characteristics. Thank you.