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PLA’s Latest Experiment With Mobility and Fire Power:
A Look at the Special (Experimental) Light Mechanized Infantry Regiment,
13th Group Army, Chengdu Military Region

Logistically, the LMIC has relatively small requirements. All ammunition consumed by the unit does not require material handling equipment to move and can be internally loaded within helicopters. Fuel consumption for an entire LMIC during a 450km march is estimated at a modest 225 gallons (846 liters). It is expected that this fuel would be diesel; however, the domestically manufactured 4x4 ATVs seen in the LMR are not known to have diesel-powered versions. Diesel powered ATV technology is well developed and a single-fuel LMR would be a likely near-term development.

Sino-Mab Group Industries model XZ-AT-400 4x4 ATV with
a JS 12.7mm sniper/anti-materiel rifle

Resupply of an inserted LMIC could be readily accomplished via use of the Mi-17 HIP helicopter. In addition to slingloading fuel blivets, PLA Mi-17 helicopters have been observed refueling ground vehicles using two hoses running from the cabin interior. The Mi-17 is routinely capable of carrying two 242-gallon (915 liter) internal fuel tanks for ferry purposes, these could be reconfigured for use in refueling vehicles. The voluminous interior of the Mi-17 is nearly 775 cubic feet (22 cubic meters) with a max internal capacity of 8818 lbs (4000kg) or a 6613 lbs (3000kg) slingload. A few sorties of Mi-17 helicopters per day have the capacity to sustain the LMIC in the field.

The LMR, like all air assault formations, is an attempt to escape the two-dimensional boundaries of classic positional warfare. After decades of “People’s War” doctrine, the PLA appears poised to move into a new era where mobility trumps mass. In nearly every potential conflict scenario envisioned for the PLA, from reunification to nuclear exchange, the mobility of the LMR will make it a decisive unit on the battlefield.

With a constant stream of official press releases regarding the experimental LMR and its activities, it appears the PLA is quite proud. In recent years the PLAAF and Navy have had their share of showcase units and high-tech weapons, the LMR is the PLA’s chance to demonstrate it too has evolved into a cutting-edge force. PLA observers should continue to watch what happens in Chengdu.