In 2015, China witnessed a profound transformation in its military landscape with the establishment of China’s synthetic brigade. Comprising an impressive arsenal of 5,000 tanks and 10,000 artillery pieces, this powerful force sent shockwaves through Western nations. What sets China’s synthetic brigade apart and accounts for its exceptional combat effectiveness?
Forming the Synthetic Brigade – A Response to Evolving Warfare:
With the new millennium, the rapid advancement of science and technology revolutionized not only civilian life but also the nature of warfare. Modern combat shifted towards synthesis and informationization, ushering in a new era for militaries worldwide.
China had long been renowned for its formidable military capabilities, leading the charts among global armed forces. However, as time progressed, internal organizational issues within the Chinese Army became apparent.
Traditionally, China’s military units operated in specialized roles, relying heavily on stronger units during combat. While this approach bolstered the capabilities of individual units, it created a lack of coordination and communication.
On the dynamic battlefield, the need for quick support from different arms arose, necessitating the mobilization of combat troops from distant locations. This led to inefficiencies and vulnerabilities, as rapid enemy responses exploited the time-consuming process.
Combat effectiveness suffered when the entire force was deployed, as the costs of transportation and resilience took a toll. Therefore, the development of a new, versatile type of force – the synthetic brigade – became imperative.
The Rise of the Synthetic Brigade:
Emerging after military reforms, the synthetic brigade replaced the traditional divisional system. While smaller in size, the synthetic brigade’s overall combat prowess surpassed that of its predecessor.
It follows a principle that emphasizes equipment quality over quantity. The synthetic brigade effectively represents a comprehensive and versatile combat force by encompassing artillery, infantry, armor, and other arms.
Though the number of synthetic brigades might not match the previous division-level units, their cooperative capabilities and overall strength improved significantly.
The Synthetic Brigade – A Global Military Trend:
The concept of a synthetic force was first introduced and implemented by the United States, pioneering military reforms in the early 21st century. The US military successfully integrated various arms, culminating in the world’s first combined division.
Recognized as the fundamental combat unit of modern warfare, the brigade-level organizational system prevailed over the divisional system. Following the US example, China, the United States, and Russia stand as the only nations that have fully formed synthetic brigades.
China’s Synthetic Brigade Unveiled:
China has now established a staggering 82 synthetic brigades, differentiated into heavy, medium, and light categories based on their emphasis. The heavy synthetic brigades carry an arsenal of devastating weapons of mass destruction, including tanks and artillery, ensuring formidable lethality.
Meanwhile, medium-sized synthetic brigades boast enhanced adaptability and maneuverability, excelling in coping with various battlefield scenarios. The light synthetic brigades focus on agility, employing guerrilla warfare tactics to deliver surprise blows to adversaries.
Notably, China’s synthetic brigades have undergone significant development, possessing advanced equipment and an impressive variety of units.
China’s Military Power in Comparison:
With a thriving China and growing differences with the United States, the issue of military strength comparison arises. While China currently boasts the largest active military personnel globally, the significance of numbers has dwindled in modern warfare.
When evaluating military capabilities, a careful analysis of weaponry and equipment is crucial. The People’s Liberation Army’s synthetic brigades are now on par with their US counterparts, armed with cutting-edge PLZ-52 self-propelled artillery capable of accurately striking targets from a distance of over 50 kilometers.
Furthermore, China’s 99A tanks rival the US M1A2 tanks in combat effectiveness. The J-20, a fifth-generation aircraft, competes favorably with the American F-35 fighter, with a slight edge in certain aspects.
However, the quantitative gap remains significant, with the US possessing a greater number of F-35s. The US Navy also surpasses China’s naval strength, boasting 11 active aircraft carriers, some of which operate on nuclear power.
Strategic bombers and tankers are areas where China lags as well. Nevertheless, China’s development of the H-20 may eventually address these shortcomings.
The Path Forward:
While China’s synthetic brigade marks a tremendous advancement in its military might, claiming superiority over the United States would be premature. China’s military strength, though formidable, still requires further development to match that of the US.
China must continue to prioritize modernization and informationization, adapting to the challenges of the new era.
A low-profile approach and unwavering dedication to progress will enable China’s military to surpass the United States in due time eventually.
In conclusion, the establishment of the synthetic brigade embodies China’s commitment to bolstering its military capabilities. While not yet on par with the US in all aspects, China’s continued efforts and determination position it on a trajectory toward becoming a global military powerhouse.
