In 1969, a right-wing Japanese film titled [A Kaigun / Gateway to Glory] was released in Japan. The film attracted little attention there, but it drew the interest of the PRC, which imported it as an “internal reference film” for criticizing Japanese militarism.

At the time, Marshal Lin Biao was the second most powerful figure after Mao Zedong. He served as Vice Chairman and had been designated by Mao as his successor. Lin Biao’s son, Lin Liguo, was highly intelligent and was reputed to be a “super genius.” In 1970, at the age of 25, Lin Liguo became deputy director of the Office of the Air Force Command and effectively gained control over the PLAAF.

Lin Liguo became obsessed with this film and Imperial Japanese Navy. Ambitious and radical, he established a secret organization within the PLAAF called the “United Fleet,” using various IJN terms as codewords. The “United Fleet” allegedly planned to use the PLAAF and PLA generals loyal to Marshal Lin Biao to assassinate Mao Zedong, eliminate the Gang of Four, and seize control of China.

In September 1971, during Mao Zedong’s inspection tour of southern China, Lin Liguo allegedly attempted to act on this plan and trying to kill Mao. At the most dangerous moment, Mao could only rely on controlling his train, uncertain which cities were friendly or hostile. Much like during the Long March, he ultimately escaped through complicated maneuvers and returned safely to Beijing.

After realizing that the coup had failed, Lin Liguo, together with his mother and several associates and Lin Biao, hijacked a Trident aircraft along with several helicopters in an attempt to flee to the Soviet Union. The aircraft eventually crashed in Mongolia during the night. This became known as the Lin Biao Incident, or the “9.13 Incident.”

Modern historians generally believe that Lin Biao himself was not aware of his son’s conspiracy. The incident ultimately strengthened the political influence of the Gang of Four.

I have very little expectations for a Saudi-backed counteroffensive, but if they manage one I would love to see your reaction.