Analysts said the inclusion would make it possible to rapidly convert emerging infrastructure, such as artificial intelligence (AI) and unmanned systems, into defence capabilities.

The revised law, passed by the top legislature on Friday, says that “the state promotes the application of advanced technologies in national defence mobilisation and develops national defence mobilisation forces in emerging fields”, according to the text published by official news agency Xinhua.

Though the amendment does not specify which “advanced technologies” it covers, Beijing-based military law expert Xie Dan said it referred to cyberspace, AI, unmanned systems including drones, the electromagnetic spectrum, surveying and mapping navigation, biotechnology, as well as maritime, space and quantum technologies.

Xie said the amendment, set to take effect on October 1, not only covered technologies but also market entities and specialised talent in these fields.

“The Russia-Ukraine conflict further validates the critical role of unmanned, intelligent and cyber technologies in modern warfare, reinforcing the necessity of this legislation,” Xie said.