25 February 2019
Introduction to China’s Military Operations Other than War
Executive Summary
With its increasing capability witnessed in recent decades, the People’s Liberation Army’s (PLA) conduct of military operations other than war (MOOTW) remains woefully understudied. With most analyses concurring it improbable that Beijing would engage in traditional security operations in the foreseeable future, responses to non-traditional security (NTS) threats would appear to be an aspect where the PLA’s capabilities will continue to be showcased. In reviewing China’s MOOTW, this policy report provides a retrospective account of how the PLA has overseen previous MOOTW activities, as well as identify those areas of PLA MOOTW expected to undergo further refinement. A better appreciation of NTS and China’s MOOTW will provide a positive platform for facilitating cooperation between Beijing and other countries in the region.
Executive Summary
With its increasing capability witnessed in recent decades, the People’s Liberation Army’s (PLA) conduct of military operations other than war (MOOTW) remains woefully understudied. With most analyses concurring it improbable that Beijing would engage in traditional security operations in the foreseeable future, responses to non-traditional security (NTS) threats would appear to be an aspect where the PLA’s capabilities will continue to be showcased. In reviewing China’s MOOTW, this policy report provides a retrospective account of how the PLA has overseen previous MOOTW activities, as well as identify those areas of PLA MOOTW expected to undergo further refinement. A better appreciation of NTS and China’s MOOTW will provide a positive platform for facilitating cooperation between Beijing and other countries in the region.
