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China Training Reforms
Before the military modernization program began, PLA training
was highly politicized and emphasized single-unit infantry troop
training. Training reforms started with the depoliticization of
training, whereby troops spent 80 percent of their time on military
activities and 20 percent on political training. The scope of
training then changed to concentrate on training officers capable
of directing combined-arms warfare. Improved military education in
the rejuvenated military academies provided some of this officer
training. In addition, large-scale combined-arms exercises, which
served to raise officer capabilities in commanding and coordinating
combined-arms operations under combat conditions, occurred on a
regular basis. These exercises stressed defense against attacking
tanks, paratroopers, and aircraft and on occasion involved the
simulated use of tactical nuclear weapons. The PLA also began using
simulation equipment in training and in 1985 held its first
completely simulated combat exercise. In 1986 the PLA training
system underwent further reforms that complemented changes in
military organization. A combined-arms tactical training center was
created for training the newly formed group armies (former field
armies) on a rotational basis. The training center coordinated
group army exercises and utilized laser devices and simulation
equipment in its training. The PLA also established a systematic
training program for new recruits, replacing the old system in
which inductees received basic training in their units. Under the
new system, before new recruits were assigned to PLA units, they
completed four months of training by a training regiment attached
to a group army. The training regiments also trained squad leaders.
Data as of July 1987
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