China under Xi Jinping has been rapidly expanding its technological capabilities, with a particular focus on enhancing its information collection and surveillance efforts. The new Information Support Force within the Army is dedicated to bolstering China’s cyber capabilities, as part of a broader military restructuring aimed at improving the country’s military capabilities in response to regional tensions.
The establishment of this new cyber force comes amid growing reports of China’s cyber activities, including recent accusations of hacking personal data in the UK. Despite these concerns, the Chinese government has emphasized its commitment to combating cyber threats globally. The Information Support Force will operate under the direct command of the Central Military Commission, led by Xi Jinping, signaling its importance within the military hierarchy.
Prominent generals from the previous Strategic Support Force will lead this unit, focusing on space, cyber, electronic, and psychological warfare. This move represents a significant step towards modernizing China’s military and strengthening its defensive capabilities in the digital arena. The creation of this unit underscores China’s determination to expand its technological capabilities and maintain its position as a global superpower.
