The PLA at 99: how China’s military went from ragtag rifles to world-class force

From revolutionary group to hi-tech machine, the PLA’s transformation has been a long pursuit of strength and self-reliance

As the People’s Liberation Army marks its 99th anniversary on August 1, one year from the deadline for its centenary goals, its evolution highlights the past, present and future of China’s military strategy. In the first part of a series, Liu Zhen examines how the PLA’s strategies have developed from guerrilla warfare to hi-tech conflict.

According to accounts by Xi and others, the soldiers lacked training and were equipped with a motley selection of weapons – mostly outdated bolt-action rifles and a few machine guns, but no artillery. They also had chronic shortages of clothing and footwear, food and ammunition.

The Communist Party’s political work boosted their discipline and morale, but equipment and logistical difficulties remained – and if anything, worsened over time.

Ultimately, exhausted and out of food and munitions, the troops were overwhelmed by local bandits and forced to disperse.