Modernization of the Chinese Pla - from Massed Militia to Force Projection - by Lt Gen Js Bajwa

PRESCRIBED BOOK FOR AREA STUDY

“MODERNIZATION OF THE CHINESE PLA: FROM MASSED MILITIA TO FORCE PROJECTION” BY LT GEN JS BAJWA

Question. The ‘Grand Strategy’ of China has undergone evolution from the early days of formation of PRC to present. Describe the fundamentals that have shaped China’s Grand Strategy’(20 Mks). What are the sub systems of ‘Comprehensive National Strategic? (10 Mks). Enumerate the Categories of National strategic resources. (10 Mks). What are the main objective ofr China’s ‘Grand Strategy’? (10 Mks).

Answer

Background

1. Since the founding of the PRC, China’s search for security has gone through three broad phases.

(a) Close military alliance and political/ economic cooperation with USSR from 10950-60.

(b) ‘People’s War of National Liberation’ which consisted of supporting anti-imperialist guerrilla wars aboard to defend China’s homeland.

(c) ‘China ‘s Search for security’ which consisted of state to state relations, balance of power diplomacy and cooperation with a broad spectrum of third world and industrialised nations.

2. Developing Suitable Strategy.

(a) China ‘s official position has been:-

(i) It seeks to develop a world class economy.

(ii) To maintain military force only for defence.

(iii) To refrain from interfering in the internal affairs of other countries.

(iv) To pursue an independent foreign policy.

(b) China’s security strategy is conditioned by four fundamental features of its security environment:-

(i) A long and at many places geographically vulnerable border.

(ii) The presence of many potential threats.

(iii) Domestic political environment.

(iv) Great –power self image.

(c) National Development Strategy. China places top priority on efforts to:-

(i) Promote