Chinese marine brigades and army amphibious forces

The People's Liberation Army Navy Marine Corps was established in 1953 with operations against Taiwan in mind, disbanded in 1957, and reformed in 1979. The earlier eight-division force is put at roughly 110,000 personnel, while later strength fell as low as 12,000 in two brigades. For the newer eight-brigade organization, a commonly listed figure of 45,000 is distinguished from an estimate of roughly 60,000 including attached personnel and cooperating army units. The brigades combine mechanized and air-assault infantry with reconnaissance, artillery, air defense, and operational and service support. Separate army amphibious forces would add to the available formations. These figures describe organizational resources, while their combat performance remains uncertain.