China's armed services are grouped in the People's Liberation Army (PLA). It has about three million troops û one- third conscripts, two-thirds in the army. The PLA has close links with the CCP. From 1967, when it restored order after the chaos of the Cultural Revolution, to 1989, when it fired on civilians in Tiananmen Square, the PLA has been used to ensure the party's dominance. It is still used to suppress dissent in Tibet, but elements within the military are thought to want a less political role. The army, in particular, is modernizing, reducing numbers and improving training. China has a large weapons industry, including nuclear weapons, and is a significant arms exporter.
