Vantage | Why Chinese army isn't what China wants the world to believe

China has strategically projected its People’s Liberation Army (PLA) as a formidable force through carefully crafted narratives, headlines and videos.

The constructed image China has successfully built an image of the PLA as a powerful and technologically advanced force. Headlines boast about the PLA’s strength including claims of having more warships than the US and possessing the world’s largest navy. However, these assertions are largely based on official narratives and may lack real-world validation. China circulates videos showcasing modern military practices such as drone deliveries of fresh food to soldiers. These visuals are designed to reinforce the perception of a well-equipped and efficient military. One example includes an app for food delivery tailored for the Chinese military, creating an illusion of high-tech support for soldiers on the front lines. Whistleblower Yao Cheng’s revelations Yao Cheng, a former PLA Lieutenant Colonel who fled China in 2016, has provided a different perspective. He reveals that Chinese soldiers face serious shortages including insufficient food supplies. Contrary to the high-tech image, Yao claims soldiers resort to cannibalising their military supplies including draining fuel from rockets to cook their meals. China’s military budget is among the highest globally reaching $224 billion in 2023. However, Yao Cheng’s revelations suggest that the funds are not adequately allocated. Some departments reportedly lack funds leading to misappropriation from the equipment budget for basic needs. This exposes a gap between the budgetary allocations and the actual resources available to the PLA. Efficiency and loyalty myths Despite the narrative of an efficient and loyal military, the reality appears different. President Xi Jinping’s continuous purges of military officials, totalling hundreds since 2013, indicate persistent corruption issues. The recent removal of more than 10 high-profile officials including a defence minister underscores the ongoing challenges within the PLA. The carefully crafted image of the PLA as a powerful and well-funded force clashes with the stark reality exposed by Yao Cheng’s revelations. Shortages, mismanagement of funds and corruption within the Chinese military raise questions about the credibility of China’s military strength. As the world scrutinises China’s military claims, it becomes evident that the PLA may be more of a Chinese creation fuelled by hype than the formidable force it is portrayed to be. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely that of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstpost’s views. Read all the Latest News , Trending News , Cricket News , Bollywood News , India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.