Chinese state media reported that President Xi Jinping on Thursday inspected a brigade of missile troops of the People's Liberation Army of China (PLA) and called for the reinforcement of their potential for strategic deterrence and their ability to conduct real combat operations, Reuters reported.
During the inspection, the Chinese leader asked them to "resolutely carry out the orders of the Party and the people,", state news agency Xinhua said.
The PLA's missile forces, which are in charge of China's conventional and nuclear missiles, have been tasked with revamping the nuclear arsenal in light of developments such as the US strengthening its missile defenses, intelligence capabilities and alliances.
During the inspection, Xi stressed the need to "follow political directives, carry out missions with a heightened sense of responsibility, and promote high-quality development in force building,", the Chinese publication "Tsai Liangshu" said.
Last month, China conducted tests of an intercontinental ballistic missile in the Pacific Ocean, which it rarely conducts at first. The test launch brought to the fore the increasing international focus on strengthening the nuclear potential of the Asian country, notes Reuters.
A major anti-corruption purge has been carried out in the ranks of the Chinese military over the past year. Several generals, including from the Missile Forces, as well as directors of defense industry enterprises were removed from the national legislature.
In June, Xi spoke of "deep-rooted problems" in the army of a political, ideological, work and disciplinary nature and added that there should be no place for corrupt elements in the ranks of the armed forces.