ABSTRACT
This chapter addresses the evolution of China’s military modernization efforts in the direction of high-technology and “informationized” warfare. It argues that China has vigorously pursued the development of the tools and techniques that fall under the rubric of “command, control, communications, and computers” (C4) as well as military intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR), based on the recognition that these have proven to be decisive elements in the conduct of modern warfare. The PLA has substantially adapted its force readiness, doctrine, and organizational structure to support its own acquisition and use of wartime information through C4ISR. These developments have enabled China to potentially use advanced weapons systems and platforms, along with cyber and other non-kinetic tools, to disrupt U.S. C4ISR, with the apparent aim of deterring U.S. interference or intervention against China.
