Yang Shi Wang·2026-01-13 08:42Core Viewpoint - "Smart" manufacturing is the core engine for high-quality development in the manufacturing industry, marking a critical leap from digitalization and networking to intelligence in China's manufacturing sector [1][3]. Group 1: Overview of Leading Smart Factories - The Ministry of Industry and Information Technology and five other departments announced the first batch of 15 leading smart factories, covering key industries such as equipment manufacturing, raw materials, and electronic information [1][2]. - These factories represent the highest level of "intelligent" manufacturing in China and signify a transition towards a more advanced manufacturing model [1][3]. Group 2: Characteristics of Leading Smart Factories - Leading smart factories are characterized by the integration of advanced manufacturing technologies, next-generation information technologies, and lean management concepts, forming the pinnacle of China's manufacturing intelligence pyramid [3][5]. - They aim to be "hexagonal warriors" with six leading identities, focusing on industry, application of AI technology, innovation in smart manufacturing models, performance, replication, and cultivation plans [5]. Group 3: Notable Examples - Changfei Fiber Optic, recognized as a benchmark for intelligent transformation in the electronic information sector, has integrated AI algorithms throughout its production process, achieving a drawing speed of 3,500 meters per minute, the highest globally, without human intervention [7]. - The company has mastered three major mainstream technologies for fiber optic preform preparation, leading to the largest diameter of preforms globally and maintaining the top market share in the fiber optic industry for nine consecutive years [7]. Group 4: Strategic Alignment - The development of leading smart factories aligns with the "14th Five-Year Plan" for intelligent manufacturing and the "15th Five-Year Plan" for building a modern industrial system centered on advanced manufacturing [5][9]. - These factories facilitate collaborative innovation across the industry chain, connecting with national strategic deployments such as "Artificial Intelligence+" and promoting the replication of successful models [9].