Comments on the Study and Critique of the Book “Military Strategy”
Comrades Yang Chengwu and Lei Yingfu:
I have read this document; it is very good. If completing it within three months seems somewhat difficult, you may extend the time, but not beyond six months.
Mao Zedong
February 5th
Chuan

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Refers to the report submitted by Yang Chengwu and Lei Yingfu to Mao Zedong on February 4, 1965. The report stated: “We have duly acknowledged the directive of January 30. We understand that the task entrusted by the Chairman—to comment on the book ‘Military Strategy’ edited by Sokolovsky and to critique U.S. strategic literature—is a major undertaking and an important strategic issue.” To ensure the successful completion of this work, a research and drafting group has been formed, comprising comrades from the General Political Department’s Propaganda Department, the General Staff Headquarters’ Operations Department, the Military Intelligence Department, and relevant personnel from the Third Department. They are striving to finish the Chairman’s assigned task in as short a period as possible. However, given the substantial workload and lack of experience, the process may take slightly longer. We aim to submit the first draft for the Chairman’s review within approximately three months.