Brazilian magazine "Foro" website article, original title: From Rubber Boots to Exoskeletons - The Impressive Modernization of the Chinese Army. In July 1977, Brazilian journalist Henfil stayed in China for 14 days and later mentioned his feelings about seeing a People's Liberation Army (PLA) soldier on the streets of Beijing in a book: "They looked completely like ordinary civilians, just wearing green uniforms and green rubber boots."
If Henfil had met a PLA soldier in China in 2026, he would have been shocked. In fact, last September 3rd, China held a large-scale military parade in Tiananmen Square in Beijing, which astonished the whole world. This event was to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. At the same time, against the backdrop of an unstable and uncertain international situation, China once again reaffirmed its commitment to the path of peaceful development through this parade.
During this approximately 70-minute military parade, the PLA's current attire is also astonishing. The modern military uniform of the PLA is no longer just clothing but has become basic equipment: high-performance camouflage suits designed for various environments, functional fabrics combined with tactical vests, helmets made of composite materials that can be used to install communication systems and night vision devices. In recent exercises, Chinese soldiers have begun testing exoskeletons to assist in operations, which can reduce physical exertion when carrying heavy loads, especially in extreme terrains.
The gap between rubber boots and exoskeletons tells more of this history than any chart could: the comprehensive changes of the Chinese military over the past few decades.
Nowadays, China continues to move forward. It is no longer an observer but a major economic, technological, and military power. The accelerated modernization of the People's Liberation Army is not a "spur-of-the-moment" decision, but a comprehensive consideration based on a very specific global development situation. China never seeks war, but it will not accept itself as territory that can be invaded, a submissive market, or a piece on someone else's chessboard that can be discarded.
If the Chinese soldier in 1977 looked ordinary, by 2026 they were equipped with advanced sensors and steel gear. This is not because China is inherently belligerent, but because it is determined not to go barefoot through an era of global turbulence. (Author: Ira Vidal, translated by Xiao Pan)
Original source: toutiao.com/article/7602050356377387572/
Statement: This article represents the personal views of the author.