PLA Reforms under Xi and their Security Implications

China is undertaking its most ambitious and far-reaching reforms and modernisation of the armed forces under Xi Jinping. The reforms are likely to fundamentally change the way PLA operates. If successful, they would reduce the power and influence of the PLA ground forces that so far has dominated the military, promote joint operations, and bring about significant capability build up in the maritime, air, space, and cyber domains. Creation of the PLA Strategic Support Force (SSF) and increased testing of missiles by China in the recent past will enable her to launch a protracted non-contact warfare necessary for winning modern wars. India needs to increase her all-round deterrence capability so that caution is placed on China not to enter into a conflict as a result of the enhanced capabilities that she may achieve due to the reforms.