divisions with twenty-seven regiments;^126 8,000–10,000 marines (whose num-
ber can reach 28,000 in wartime); and 28,000 coastal defenders.^127 The PLAN
has 97,000 each of officers, noncommissioned officers, and conscripts, with the
former being further divided into command, political, logistics, equipment,
and technical career tracks.^128
Like their headquarters, vessel types appear to be organized hierarchically
(e.g., with nuclear-powered submarines enjoying higher status than their
conventional counterparts).^129 China’s North, East, and South Sea fleets each
possess two submarine divisions, three destroyer/frigate divisions, and one
mine-countermeasures division. Whereas the NSF (North Sea Fleet) has one
amphibious division, however, the East and South Sea fleets each possess two.
Recent efforts to make the PLAN a leaner, more effective fighting force include
base realignment and closure; placement of PLAN forces under the direct com-
mand of their respective fleets; establishment of new ‘‘high-tech surface ship...
units’’; strengthening militia units and reserve units (particularly those involved
in technological, logistical, and equipment support); engagement in ‘‘joint
operation and systems building’’; and consolidation of a ‘‘joint logistical support
system.’’ China’s coastal defense force has also been strengthened and its equip-
ment upgraded.^130
China’s NSF, headquartered at Qingdao (with the Naval Submarine Academy),
has other major bases at Huludao (missile testing, R&D, training, and SSN/
SSBN production), Jianggezhuang (SSBNs), and Lushun, as well as at Dalian
(Naval Vessel Academy, other facilities) and Yantai (Aviation Engineering Col-
lege). NSF PLANAF bases are located at Dalian, Qingdao, Jinxi, Jiyuan, Laiyang,
Jiaoxian, Xingtai, Laishan, Anyang, Changzhi, Liangxiang, and Shanhaiguan.
Headquartered at Ningbo, China’s ESF(East Sea Fleet) has other primary
bases at Zhoushan, Shanghai, and Fujan. Located further inland are Nanjing’s
Naval Staff College and Wuhan’s Naval Engineering University. PLANAF bases
are located at Danyang, Daishan, Shanghai (Dachang), Ningbo, Luqiao, and
Shitangqiao.
The SSF (South Sea Fleet), headquartered at Zhanjiang, with major bases in
Yulin and Guangzhou (Naval Service Arms Command Academy), apparently
contains several unique assets. A base to support China’s new Type 093 and Type
094 submarines is now reportedly under construction on Hainan Island.^131 The
SSF is also home to two marine infantry brigades at Heieu (the 1st and 164th).
Each brigade includes one artillery regiment, one amphibious armor regiment,
and three infantry regiments. The other fleets apparently lack such robust
amphibious capabilities.^132 PLANAF bases are located at Foluo, Haikou, Ling-
shui, Sanya, Guiping, Jialaishi, and Lingling.
The PLAN also operates a variety of research institutes that provide input into
its strategy. These include the Navy Research Institute in Beijing, the Command
and Staff College in Nanjing, and the Naval Submarine Academy in Qingdao.^133
Can China Become a Maritime Power? 93