The rapid convergence of emerging technologies isn’t just changing the way we live and work, but redefining the modern battlefield as well. It is becoming increasingly invisible, silent and unmanned. While regional flashpoints and prolonged conflicts such as the Ukraine crisis and the devastation in Gaza are growing, there is a surge in informatization and intelligentization as well. Even mainstream military has embraced unmanned warfare and countries around the world are adopting smarter combat strategies, artificial intelligence, robotics, and precision systems to outthink and outpace adversaries.

Against this backdrop, a video, “Forging ahead: Redefining strength in the age of tech,” has become the cynosure of audiences and triggered intense discussion after its release on CGTN platforms. It’s about how the younger generation of scientist and soldiers from the Chinese mainland are harnessing the most advanced tech to push combat tactics further.

The audience gets a gripping, immersive look at China’s latest applications of military technology: from real-combat simulation of manned-unmanned coordination in anti-drone operations, to on-ground test of seamless switching from ski jumps to catapult launches, and honing reconnaissance and intelligence analysis skills in real-world scenarios … and much more

So it’s not surprising that the video has drawn widespread attention to the pace of technological change in unmanned warfare. Today, a conflict or a war is no longer solely fought with soldiers and firepower, but with the integration of smart tactics and advanced technologies. In this transformation, unmanned combat will not be a passing trend – it will be a continuing chapter in the story of military evolution, shaping the way wars will be fought in the decades to come. And for the Chinese mainland, it’s never about flexing muscles, but about building confidence and strength for pursuing peace.