China’s Rocket Force (PLARF): The Backbone of Beijing’s Global Military Strategy

PLARF, China's elite missile force, is central to Xi Jinping's global strategy—shaping regional power through nuclear and precision firepower.

The People’s Liberation Army Rocket Force (PLARF) is rapidly emerging as China’s most decisive military instrument, underpinning President Xi Jinping’s ambitious vision for global influence. As China pushes toward becoming a world superpower by 2049, PLARF plays a central role in Beijing’s strategy of military modernization and global deterrence.

This article (Part 1 of 2) explores the evolution of China’s missile forces, from their early origins to the formal establishment of the PLARF in 2016. The upcoming second part will focus on how this impacts India’s strategic posture.

Xi Jinping’s “Chinese Dream” and Military Transformation 

After the 19th National Congress of the Communist Party, President Xi Jinping solidified his grip on power, declaring himself leader for life. He laid out a national strategy centered on achieving what he calls the "Great Rejuvenation of the Chinese Nation"—also known as the Chinese Dream.

At the core of this strategy lies a powerful equation:

Economic superiority + Military dominance = Global leadership

To make this vision a reality, China is heavily investing in the modernization of its armed forces. Xi aims for the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) to become the most powerful military in the world by 2049, the centenary of the founding of the People's Republic of China.

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From PLASAF to PLARF: The Journey of China's Missile Force

Originally known as the PLA Second Artillery Force (PLASAF), China’s missile division was founded in 1966, shortly after the country’s first nuclear test in 1964 at Lop Nor. Initially focused solely on nuclear deterrence, PLASAF began integrating conventional missiles into its arsenal in the 1990s.

Despite technological progress, PLASAF remained a supporting arm of the PLA—never considered a decisive battlefield force. That changed on January 1, 2016, when PLASAF was formally elevated to an independent service branch: the PLA Rocket Force (PLARF).

Why PLARF Matters: Strategy, Autonomy, and Power Projection

With its promotion, PLARF now holds an autonomous strategic role within China’s military command structure. It supports the Central Military Commission’s (CMC) doctrine of Anti-Access/Area Denial (A2/AD), which aims to:

• Prevent enemy forces from entering China’s sphere of influence—whether by land, air, or sea
• Deny adversaries any operational advantage near Chinese territory, especially around Taiwan and the First Island Chain
• This shift has transformed PLARF from a passive deterrent to an active strategic force, capable of both deterring nuclear threats and conducting high-precision conventional strikes.

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Nuclear Capabilities: China’s Strategic Deterrent

PLARF's nuclear arsenal plays a key role in China's "No First Use" nuclear policy. The force maintains an estimated 300+ nuclear-tipped missiles, including:

• DF-31 and DF-41 Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles (ICBMs)
• Land and sea-based delivery platforms for second-strike capability
• These systems ensure China can absorb a first strike and retaliate decisively, enhancing its strategic deterrence posture.

Conventional PLARF: The Rise of Precision Strike Capabilities

In the 1990s, Chinese military planners realized that nuclear missiles were effective only for deterrence, not practical use in conventional conflicts. As a result, PLARF began focusing on high-precision conventional missiles to support PLA operations in regional conflicts.

Evolution of Conventional Missile Strategy:

• Transition from nuclear-only to dual-use systems
• Deployment of solid-fueled, road-mobile missiles for greater survivability
• Drastic improvements in accuracy with reduced Circular Error Probable (CEP)

Modern conventional missiles now include:

• Intermediate-Range Ballistic Missiles (IRBMs)
• Land-Attack Cruise Missiles (LACMs)
• Anti-Ship Cruise Missiles (ASCMs)

These missiles form the foundation of China’s offensive strike capabilities in Taiwan, the East China Sea, and other regional flashpoints.

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Three Pillars of Modern Missile Effectiveness

To remain a credible threat, modern missile systems must achieve:

• Precision – Pinpoint targeting with CEPs below 10 meters
• Lethality – Enhanced warhead design and explosive impact
• Survivability – Mobile platforms and quick launch readiness

PLARF has made significant strides in all three areas, positioning itself as one of the most advanced missile forces globally.

Final Thoughts: A Force That Shapes Geopolitics

The establishment and evolution of the PLA Rocket Force signal a dramatic shift in China’s global military posture. It reflects Beijing’s intent to use strategic firepower not only as a shield but also as a sword—supporting broader foreign policy ambitions.

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Next Up: Part 2 – How China’s Rocket Force Affects India’s National Security

Key Takeaways:

1. PLARF is China’s premier missile force, playing a strategic role in deterrence and offensive operations.
2. Transitioned from PLASAF in 2016 to reflect its growing role.
3. Supports China’s global ambitions outlined in Xi Jinping’s "Chinese Dream".
4. Plays a central role in A2/AD strategy, particularly in the Taiwan Strait and First Island Chain.
5. Equipped with both nuclear and high-precision conventional missiles.