In the mountains of Huangyadong in North China’s Shanxi Province lies the site of the Huangyadong Arsenal of the Eighth Route Army during the War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression.
In late autumn of 1941, the serenity of Huangyadong was shattered by a fierce ambush against Japanese aggression. At dawn on November 11, taking advantage of heavy fog, the well-equipped invading Japanese Army with over 5,000 soldiers, closed in on the base of the Eighth Route Army's Special Operations Unit, preparing to launch a surprise attack on the military industrial base in Huangyadong.
The Eighth Route Army's Special Operations Unit employed the tactic of strategic retreat, laying a large number of landmines in the canyon before moving to the higher ground of steep cliffs that were easy to defend and difficult to attack, shooting down fiercely advancing Japanese troops from above.
After days and nights of fierce fighting, with a casualty ratio favoring the Chinese 6 to 1, the Eighth Route Army secured a historic victory against Japanese forces in the Battle of Huangyadong. The "Type 81" short rifle played a crucial role in the battle, enabling soldiers to dominate from high ground.
Today, the "Type 81" short rifle remains synonymous with "Huangyadong," symbolizing China’s self-reliance in arms production. It embodies the courage to forge new paths and the innovation to create opportunities in times of crisis.
Amidst the worn machinery, one can almost envision the early Communist Party members and military industry soldiers laboring tirelessly under dim oil lamps, producing China’s "first gun".
To boost rifle, shell, and bullet production for front-line soldiers and reduce casualties, workers often tailored overtime, undeterred by leaking roofs during relentless rain.
Today, countless compatriots in China North Industries Group Corporation Limited continue this legacy on production lines, dedicating their lives to national defense. They carry on the story behind the first Chinese-made gun, nurturing the spirit of Huangyadong characterized by hard work, self-reliance, and the courage to innovate. They embody the deep-rooted essence of the Chinese people's love for peace.
(Executive editor: Yuan Ting)
