China to focus on 'intelligent military system' as PLA celebrates 99 years

President Xi Jinping directed the People's Liberation Army (PLA) to accelerate military application of artificial intelligence and build an 'intelligent military system'.

Xi spoke at a Politburo group study session, urging expansion of unmanned technologies and network information systems.

The directive aligns with the PLA's 2027 centenary modernization goal, which focuses on integrating emerging technologies.

Xi emphasized the military's anti-corruption campaign, which has led to removal of senior commanders and two former defense ministers.

China aims to modernize its national defense and armed forces by 2035 and build a 'world-class' military by 2049.