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China Goes On Parade. Nothing Is Left to Chance

Martin McCauley writes: The military parade marking the 60th anniversary of the People’s Republic of China on October 1 will be the greatest and most impressive ever assembled. The Chinese press has reported already that 52 new weapons systems will be on display on 30 vehicles and in 12 air formations. New uniforms will be worn and newly painted equipment will be on show.The parade will include elements of all Chinese forces, not merely the People’s Liberation Army (PLA). The loyalty of the armed forces is pledged to the Communist Party of China, not the state. The main mission of these forces, according to President Hu Jintao, is to protect and defend the leading role of the party. Every formation, except for the guard of honour, will be headed by two high ranking officers on two... 

Is China’s People’s Liberation Army Becoming ‘A State Within A State’?

Martin McCauley writes: The 82nd anniversary of the founding of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA), on August 1, was marked by several initiatives to improve the state of the armed forces. In addition, Hu Jintao, President of the People’s Republic and commander- in-chief of the PLA, promised resources to promote the modernisation of the PLA in the new century. Yet, the high command still suffers from drawbacks such as the advanced age of its commanders and factionalism within the ranks. Significantly Hu took the opportunity to reiterate one of Mao Zedong’s slogans: ‘The synthesis of the army are the people’. This has made some observers uneasy, as it could add to the privileges enjoyed by the military and strengthen its position as a ‘state within a state’.... 

Is The Loyalty Of The People’s Liberation Army (PLA) To The Chinese Leadership In Doubt?

Martin McCauley writes: Last month the Chinese navy held a parade to commemorate the 60th anniversary of its founding by putting on display its most modern weaponry. This included two modern nuclear submarines built entirely in China. Delegations from 29 countries attended the festivities in the port city of Qingdao having the opportunity to access the rising potential of the Chinese navy. The question on their minds was: is it preparing to dominate the seas off the coast of the Middle Kingdom?An even more impressive parade of military power is expected on October 1 to mark the 60th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China. The army and air force will then be able to show how quickly they have advanced over the last decade. The rising military power of China poses... 

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