Yao Cheng, a former PLA Lieutenant Colonel who fled China in 2016, has provided a different perspective. He reveals that Chinese soldiers face serious shortages including insufficient food supplies. Contrary to the high-tech image, Yao claims soldiers resort to cannibalising their military supplies including draining fuel from rockets to cook their meals.
China’s
military budget is among the highest globally reaching $224 billion in 2023.
However, Yao Cheng’s revelations suggest that the funds are not adequately
allocated. Some departments reportedly lack funds leading to misappropriation
from the equipment budget for basic needs. This exposes a gap between the
budgetary allocations and the actual resources available to the PLA.
Efficiency and loyalty myths
Despite
the narrative of an efficient and loyal military, the reality appears
different. President Xi Jinping’s continuous purges of military officials,
totalling hundreds since 2013, indicate persistent corruption issues. The
recent removal of more than 10 high-profile officials including a defence
minister underscores the ongoing challenges within the PLA.
The
carefully crafted image of the PLA as a powerful and well-funded force clashes
with the stark reality exposed by Yao Cheng’s revelations. Shortages,
mismanagement of funds and corruption within the Chinese military raise
questions about the credibility of China’s military strength. As the world
scrutinises China’s military claims, it becomes evident that the PLA may be
more of a Chinese creation fuelled by hype than the formidable force it is
portrayed to be.
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