In November 1935, he was named chairman of the Military Commission. From this point onward, Mao was the Communist Party's undisputed leader, even though he would not become party chairman until 1943.
In April 1935, the tower was used to make experimental low-resolution television transmissions, using a shortwave transmitter of 200 watts power.
On 17 November, an improved 180-line transmitter was installed.
By the end of 1935 the Chinese government had essentially abandoned northern China. In its place, the Japanese-backed East Hebei Autonomous Council and the Hebei–Chahar Political Council were established.