People's Liberation Army Doctrine and Political-Military Integration in China's National Strategies

This monograph explores the role of the Peoples Liberation Army PLA in broader Peoples Republic of China PRC strategies. It examines the PLAs organizational and theoretical integration with political leadership, and how this integration shapes PLA doctrine. It argues that at the conceptual level, Chinas national strategies are highly integrated. As Chinas military means more deeply integrate with other national means and political ends under Xi Jinpings holistic approach to national security, PLA doctrine will evolve in significant ways. Some of these trends, such as the employment of the PLA to support global governance and development interests, and increased political centralization, are well under way. Other trends, such as a growing emphasis on the offense, will accelerate as political centralization solidifies and China perceives its period of strategic opportunity coming to a close. Understanding how Chinas holistic approach to national security will continue to shape PLA doctrine is especially significant for the US, as fundamental aspects of Beijings approach may challenge bilateral stability, conflict avoidance, and crisis management.