In a significant move toward global digital engagement, China’s Ministry of National Defense has officially established its presence on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter). The account, operating under the handle @MND_China and bearing the name ‘Ministry of National Defense of China,’ went live on Monday, December 8, 2025.
The debut post, written in English, announced: ‘History in the making! Here we come. Hi, the official account of the Ministry of National Defense of the People’s Republic of China goes live today.’ The ministry committed to using the platform to share narratives about China and its military operations.
Accompanying the announcement was a compelling one-minute video emphasizing China’s dedication to global peace, featuring the slogans: ‘Upholding justice; Safeguarding peace; Serving the people.’ The visual presentation showcased various activities of the Chinese military, including training exercises, United Nations peacekeeping missions, anti-piracy escort operations in the Gulf of Aden and waters off Somalia, medical assistance programs, and domestic disaster relief efforts.
This development represents the latest in a series of strategic digital expansions by Chinese military entities. Previous initiatives include the PLA Navy’s launch of overseas social media accounts in April, the establishment of the PLA’s news communication center accounts in September 2024, and the consistent social media presence maintained by the PLA National Defense University’s International College of Defense Studies.
Military analyst Zhang Junshe, formerly of the PLA Naval Research Academy, characterized this digital expansion as reflecting ‘a more open, transparent and confident attitude of the Chinese military.’ He noted that these platforms allow global netizens to better understand the PLA’s development, strategies, and policies while providing opportunities for direct interaction and clarification of misconceptions.
The initiative aims to foster greater international understanding of China’s defense policies and counter what Chinese officials describe as misinformation about the country’s military objectives and operations.