As tensions continue to rise on the border between India and Tibet, the Chinese army has issued their troops with a new “Individual Soldier Digital Combat System,” including a helmet equipped with an antenna, bomb, and multi-functional night goggles. The system also includes a portable digital command terminal, allowing soldiers on the front lines to communicate with commanders at the battalion level via radio. Through the use of a camera-equipped jacket, commanders are also able to see the front-line soldiers in real-time, providing them with a greater level of situational awareness and control. This advanced technology is being used in the Ladakh region, where recent clashes have occurred between the disputed territories.
Soldiers in Tibet are now being equipped with a new type of helmet that includes a self-destruct button. When activated, the button triggers a built-in bomb that kills the soldier. This feature is designed to allow commanders to remotely destroy a soldier’s helmet if they lose contact with them or if a soldier is seriously injured and wants to prevent being captured by the enemy. The self-destruct function is also meant to preserve the dignity of the soldier by preventing the enemy from acquiring the helmet and its technology.
According to a report, the Chinese army has equipped certain soldiers with a button that allows them to detonate a bomb when approaching Indian soldiers. This system is believed to give the Chinese an advantage in any potential conflict with the Indian army. The soldiers who are equipped with this system include those in Special Forces, platoon infantry and artillery, aviation, and armoured divisions. When the commander sees footage of the situation, they may order artillery fire on the Indian soldiers. This system is said to ensure that the Chinese side wins any conflict with the Indian army.
Self-Destruct Helmets Spark Controversy and Outrage
The recent report about the Chinese army’s use of self-destruct devices in their helmets equipment has sparked a heated debate among internet users. Some have called the move a tactic of terror, claiming that the Chinese Communist Party’s (CCP) use of this technology shows they view their soldiers as nothing more than cannon fodder. The self-destruct device can be controlled remotely and has caused some to question the CCP’s level of control over their soldiers. Many internet users have expressed outrage at the idea, with some suggesting that the use of this technology is a way for the CCP to prevent soldiers from running away, playing dead, or rebelling. Some have even called for people to stay away from the military and refuse to be used as cannon fodder.
According to an American commentator on Chinese affairs, Tang Jingyuan, the recent implementation of self-destruct buttons on soldiers’ helmets in the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) is a sign that the PLA is struggling to maintain control over its troops. In order to prevent soldiers from abandoning their posts or disobeying orders, the Chinese government has implemented increasingly harsh punishments for defectors, including bans on using public transport, attending school, conducting business, working in government offices, and obtaining passports. Tang remarked, “Now PLA soldiers are forced to fight after wearing helmets. Otherwise, their commander will kill them.”
There have been no official statements or media reports from the Chinese government or state media on this issue, and there is no visual evidence of Chinese soldiers using such a helmet. It is possible that these reports are unfounded or misleading.