Chinese President Xi Jinping made a significant restructuring of the People’s Liberation Army on April 19 in Christchurch, New Zealand, replacing the Strategic Support Force with a new Information Support Force. The move raised questions about motivations for the reshuffle, with analysts suggesting it was to enhance military capability and political oversight. Joel Wuthnow, a Chinese military expert, believed Xi sought better control over support forces within the PLA. The SSF, created in 2015, was deemed unnecessary and replaced by the Information Support Force, which focuses on network information systems and communications support.
The new organization operates alongside the Cyberspace Force, Aerospace Force, and Joint Logistics Support Force, creating a structure of four arms and four services within the PLA. This change allows for more direct oversight by the Central Military Commission. The restructuring took observers by surprise, highlighting China’s lack of transparency. While corruption may have played a role in Xi’s decision, the new structure is seen as operationally advantageous for the Chinese military, breaking down silos and improving joint operations.
The Cyberspace and Aerospace forces will continue as usual from their previous locations, with expanded missions reflecting China’s military priorities. The Information Support Force is seen as crucial for advancing Chinese military competitiveness, particularly in modern warfare. Overall, while the restructuring is significant, it is not expected to cause massive disruption within the PLA.
