With the launch of its Cyberspace Force, China has elevated the digital domain to a theatre of war. The Cyberspace Force of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) is China’s newest military branch, launched on 19 April 2024.
Based in Haidian District, Beijing, and with five antennas across the country, it operates under the direct authority of the Central Military Commission (CMC).
Its creation followed the dissolution of the Strategic Support Force (SSF) and shows a broader shift in China’s approach to modern warfare. The force is tasked with both defending and attacking in the cyber domain. Additionally, it covers:Network security
Electronic warfare
Information dominance
The Cyberspace Force plays a central role in China’s preparation for future conflicts, particularly in what the PLA calls “informatised warfare”, a doctrine focused on controlling the flow of information across all domains. By placing the unit directly under the CMC, China ensures centralised control, operational discipline, and strategic reach in cyberspace.
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1. Mission and Doctrine of The People’s Liberation Army Cyberspace Force
1.1 Mission
The Cyberspace Force is tasked with defending China’s digital sovereignty and securing its national interests in cyberspace. According to the Ministry of National Defence, this includes “reinforcing national cyber border defence,” detecting and countering intrusions, and maintaining information security. These capabilities are essential responses to growing global cyber threats that, in Beijing’s view, increasingly target China. While the force is clearly equipped for offensive operations,
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