AS the country’s first TV drama centering on the Rocket Force of the People’s Liberation Army, the 49-episode “The Glory of Youth” is running on Zhejiang Satellite Television, Jiangsu Satellite Television and the streaming site Youku starting early this week.

Adapted from military writer Feng Jie’s novel “Join the Army After College,” the story follows four young men who join the Rocket Force after their university graduation. With a stellar cast led by Li Yifeng, Chen Xingxu, Zhang Xinyu and Xiao Yang, the project took more than three years on preparation and production.

Known for the 2017 blockbuster “Animal World” and 2020 popular series “Fearless Whispers,” actor Li recalls he was hooked by the script at first glance, which skillfully blends stressful military life and funny moments for new recruits.

“When I put on the military suit to play a soldier for the first time, I was quite nervous and shy to look at myself in the mirror. It was my first time to play a military staffer. It was a dream experience that made me feel I had really become a soldier,” Li said.

With support from the Rocket Force, the show provides a glimpse into China’s strategic and tactical missile forces, stirring national pride among young audiences, producers said.(China Daily)