China: New Rules to Strengthen Discipline and Supervision of Senior Military Officers

China has introduced new measures aimed at strengthening the discipline and supervision of senior officers of the People's Liberation Army. According to state media reports, the Central Military Commission, chaired by Xi Jinping, has published a set of rules aimed at consolidating the management of military cadres and increasing internal control over command structures.

The provisions include 26 articles divided into seven areas and cover aspects related to personnel selection, political training, and the supervision of military leaders during the performance of their duties. The new rules, according to state television CCTV, aim to ensure stricter and more uniform management of high-level officers.

Particular attention is given to the responsibility of commanders and leaders, who are called to represent a model of reference within the Armed Forces. The measures are part of the broader military modernization process initiated by Beijing in recent years.

The Campaign Against Corruption in the Armed Forces

In recent years, the Chinese leadership has intensified internal control activities and the fight against corruption within the military apparatus. The campaign has involved several high-profile officers and represents one of the main initiatives carried out by the Central Military Commission.

On May 7, 2026, former Defense Ministers Wei Fenghe and Li Shangfu, both in office between 2018 and 2023, were convicted for crimes related to corruption episodes. Chinese authorities have presented these measures as part of the process of strengthening discipline and transparency within the Armed Forces.

In previous months, there were also reports of investigative deep dives concerning other senior officers of the Chinese military apparatus, including members of the Central Military Commission. In this context, the new rules are interpreted as a tool intended to further consolidate control and supervision mechanisms.

Military Modernization and Development of Operational Capabilities

China continues to invest in the modernization of its military capabilities, with programs affecting the aerospace, naval, missile, and technological sectors. The Chinese defense budget remains the second highest in the world after that of the United States and supports a broad process of updating the Armed Forces.

According to state media, the new measures will help improve organizational efficiency and the preparation of managerial staff, promoting the development of an increasingly modern and integrated military structure. CCTV also emphasized that the regulations aim to strengthen the training of high-level cadres and support the national defense modernization objectives.

In recent years, the People's Liberation Army has increased participation in training activities, technological programs, and international cooperation initiatives, in line with the strategy of updating operational capabilities promoted by the Chinese leadership.

The new provisions therefore represent a further step in the reorganization and development path of the Chinese Armed Forces, with particular attention to disciplinary aspects, the preparation of managerial staff, and the strengthening of command structures.