Coronavirus hits the PLA hard
Chinese society and the national economy are reeling from the COVID-19 outbreak, and the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) is not immune from the coronavirus’ microscopic tentacles. Quite apart from the PLA’s contribution to public health measures, the military’s training, recruitment and equipment production are all being impacted.
Snr Col Wu Qian, director general of the Information Office of the Ministry of National Defense (MND), noted on 28 February: ‘President Xi directed that the military should bear in mind its purpose of serving the people and make active efforts to support local authorities in epidemic prevention and control… They will perform
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Defence Notes
-
![What will next-gen counter-UAS capabilities for the US look like?]()
What will next-gen counter-UAS capabilities for the US look like?
Future US counter-uncrewed aerial system solutions are likely to require a flexible, multi-layered approach to tackle a broad spectrum of new threats as they emerge.
-
![Elbit Systems awarded $2.3 billion contract as results soar]()
Elbit Systems awarded $2.3 billion contract as results soar
The company’s order backlog as of 30 September totalled $25.2 billion and more than a third of this is scheduled to be fulfilled before the end of 2026.
-
![US military foresees growing use of 3D printing]()
US military foresees growing use of 3D printing
Advanced manufacturing has evolved to meet military requirements and now supports multiple US critical assets, including Arleigh Burke-class destroyers, F-18, F-22, F-35, Bradley, HMMWV and Patriot.
-
![Irish Naval Service expands as the country looks to defence during EU presidency]()
Irish Naval Service expands as the country looks to defence during EU presidency
The Irish Naval Service has struggled to maintain capability, particularly in the face of lucrative private sector offers luring away personnel.
-
![Resilience, adaptiveness and collaboration vital for success in space (Studio)]()
Resilience, adaptiveness and collaboration vital for success in space (Studio)
Speakers at the Defence In Space Conference (DISC) 2025 highlighted the critical and evolving role of space in national security, defence and the global economy.
