The PLA has been operating with C3i equipment since the early 90s. In general, if the PLA continues to rely on smaller SOF's and rapid reaction units to do the dirty work, coordination is not such a bad problem.
Yes, but SOF and rapid reaction force is 2 very different thing and both of them need a good C3ISR to do their work properly.
SOF C3ISR is very important because Information is one of there most important asset, bad intelligence can get your SOF wipe out. While good intelligence can allow them to deal some heavy damage.
Rapid reaction need a good C3ISR better then anything, coordination and supprise is one of there most important asset. Raoud reaction units are use to launch a precise, fast, coordinated attack at any weak point in the enemy offence or defence.
The type 96 is not very expensive hence the reason it has been one of the few PLA weapons in mass production over recent years
Yes they type 96 is not very expensive and it been mass producted. Nevertheless it doesn't mean it cheap enough to fully replace the type69's and type 79's.
It a better use of asset to upgrade the type69's and type 79's, however they will not be use as a MBT like in modern term. But more of a direct fire support for mechanised units.