This year, the government of China lays out a plan to speed up the modernization of the People’s Liberation Army and to deepen the training intensity across the armed forces. The outline appears in the government report presented at the opening of the first session of the National People’s Congress for the 14th term. This signals a continued emphasis on building military capability in step with broader defense reforms and strategic priorities.
The document stresses the need to strengthen military governance, build on the gains from defense and armed forces reform, and accelerate the planning and execution of integrated military operations. It describes these steps as essential programs to support national security and the fulfillment of defense tasks through a more robust and capable force. The tone reflects a long view of reform, modernization, and disciplined development across the entire military establishment. [Attribution: NPC government report]
Before the NPC session, an official briefing highlighted that the rise in the country’s defense budget is connected to confronting a variety of security challenges and maintaining the responsibilities that come with being a major power. This framing suggests that budgetary decisions are tied to strategic calculations, including modernization projects, training enhancements, and the consolidation of a more professional and capable force. [Attribution: government briefing]
On the eve of the session, observers noted that the leadership intends to preserve an independent and peaceful foreign policy while strengthening domestic defense capabilities. The statements indicate a dual approach: a commitment to peaceful international engagement combined with a readiness to meet emerging security demands through enduring reform and modernization efforts. [Attribution: NPC remarks]
As the session proceeded, the government reaffirmed its plan to integrate modernization with the everyday work of the armed forces. The emphasis was on improving planning processes for combat training, upgrading equipment and systems, and ensuring that reforms translate into more effective command and control, logistics, and operational readiness. The aim is a more cohesive, responsive, and mission-ready force capable of addressing a spectrum of scenarios on short notice while staying aligned with national policy objectives. [Attribution: NPC report]
Industry observers have noted how these ongoing efforts fit into a broader trend of modernization that touches many layers of society and national strategy. The approach combines doctrinal updates, force structure adjustments, and sustained investments in science and technology to keep the PLA aligned with emerging global and regional security dynamics. The intent is to create a force that can operate with greater precision, speed, and interoperability across services and with allied partners when appropriate. [Attribution: defense analysis]
Analysts also point to the role of training reforms in producing a more capable workforce within the military. Emphasis on realistic drills, advanced simulations, and standardized proficiency benchmarks aims to raise overall competency while ensuring that personnel can adapt quickly to new weapons, platforms, and tactical concepts. The result is a more agile force, better prepared to carry out complex missions under varied conditions. [Attribution: defense analysis]
The overall message presented at the NPC session is one of measured acceleration. A balance is sought between prudent modernization and careful stewardship of resources, preserving the stability and predictability that many international partners expect from China. The reform program is framed as a continuous evolution rather than a short-term push, with clear links to modernization timelines, performance milestones, and continuous improvement in the training pipeline. [Attribution: NPC report]
In summary, the document makes clear that the modernization drive is central to national defense and strategic posture. It outlines a multi-faceted program that integrates governance, reform outcomes, combat planning, and training excellence. The emphasis remains on building a capable, disciplined, and ready force that can fulfill China’s security commitments while engaging responsibly on the global stage. [Attribution: NPC report]