China is celebrating the 99th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) on August 1, 2026. Founded in 1927, the armed forces have grown over nearly a century from a revolutionary force into a modern military power focused on national defense and stability.
Focus on high-tech modernization
This year’s Army Day comes at a pivotal moment as China advances toward its centenary military goals. President Xi Jinping urged continuous efforts to “promote high-quality modernization of national defense and the army” through technology, innovation and enhanced training.
Official reports highlighted that “reaching the PLA centenary goals and speeding up the building of world-class armed forces are strategic imperatives” for the nation’s future development.
Disaster relief and humanitarian missions
Beyond core national security, the armed forces carry out extensive civilian support work. Government statements emphasized that “the PLA comes from the people and serves the people,” deploying troops for major flood rescues, earthquake relief, emergency response and public health support both at home and abroad.
Global peacekeeping and defense roles
China continues to emphasize the military’s role in international peace. Official policy documents reaffirmed that “China will continue to follow the path of peaceful development, no matter how it develops.”
China remains the largest troop contributor to United Nations peacekeeping operations among permanent UN Security Council members, having sent over 50,000 peacekeepers worldwide.
International commemorations and support
Commemorative events took place internationally to mark the 99th anniversary. At a ceremony hosted in Pakistan, military leadership praised the long-standing strategic relationship, noting that “the Pakistan Armed Forces and the PLA remain trusted partners” united by mutual trust and shared stability goals.
