President Xi Jinping Calls for Enhanced Military Preparedness

BEIJING, Oct 19 (Reuters) – Chinese President Xi Jinping recently conducted an inspection of the People's Liberation Army‘s Rocket Force, emphasizing the need for enhanced combat readiness and deterrence capabilities. The inspection took place on Thursday, as reported by the state news agency Xinhua.

During his visit, President Xi urged the strategic missile troops to steadfastly execute the assignments entrusted to them by the Party and the people. “Promoting high-quality development of the force construction” and adhering to political guidance were among the priorities Xi highlighted, according to Cailianshe, a Chinese media outlet.

The PLA Rocket Force, responsible for overseeing China’s conventional and nuclear missiles, is undergoing modernization in response to global developments, including advanced U.S. missile defenses, improved surveillance capabilities, and fortified alliances.

Recently, China conducted a rare launch of an intercontinental ballistic missile into the Pacific Ocean, drawing international attention to its expanding nuclear arsenal. This reflects broader military enhancements that have taken place since last year, including a significant anti-corruption purge. Several top military officials, including generals and aerospace defense industry executives, have been dismissed from the national legislative body.

Last month, Xi described issues regarding politics, ideology, work style, and discipline within the military, emphasizing the eradication of corruption from the armed forces.

In a separate address, Xi called for robust preparation for war and strengthening military capabilities. His directive follows a series of large-scale military drills around Taiwan, underscoring China’s longstanding claim over the island, which it regards as part of its territory. These exercises, which intensify military presence around Taiwan, are part of China’s strategy to potentially reunite the island with the mainland.

According to the state-run CCTV channel, Xi stressed the importance of safeguarding the country’s strategic security and core interests, amidst rising tensions in the Taiwan Strait. The historical Taiwan-China dispute dates back to the 1949 civil war when nationalist forces, defeated by the communists, fled to Taiwan.