Politics
14:08, 27-Jul-2017
What to expect when you become a PLA soldier
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China’s People’s Liberation Army is the world’s largest military force and is also growing at a remarkable pace.
In recent years, the PLA has undergone rapid modernization and also boosted its firepower by commissioning new arsenals.
The PLA consists of five professional service branches: the Ground Force, Navy, Air Force, Rocket Force and the Strategic Support Force.
China pursues a policy of peaceful development, therefore all PLA troops are employed as the country’s guardians, working in areas such as national defense, rescue operations, peacekeeping and escort duties.
File photo of PLA soldiers taking part in a military exercise / CGTN Picture
File photo of PLA soldiers taking part in a military exercise / CGTN Picture
During military exercises, PLA troops are put through their paces – jumping through flaming hoops, crawling under burning wires, traversing grueling obstacle courses, demonstrating their combat skills and performing arrest techniques – often in inhospitable parts of the country and in harsh weather.
They also take part in regular anti-terrorism training programs and anti-hijacking maneuvers.
This year is an important year for the PLA as it celebrates its 90th anniversary. Various media reports have predicted a military parade in Beijing, but the ministry of national defense has yet confirmed such a speculation.