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China's Military Purges Weaken PLA Command Structure, Readiness

2/25/2026

Summary

Story summary

The International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) says China's military corruption purges have created deficiencies in the People's Liberation Army (PLA) command structure.
The purges have affected the Central Military Commission and top generals, hampering PLA readiness.
The report notes the supreme command has been reduced to two members, undermining morale and operational effectiveness.
The IISS says modernization will likely continue, as spending accounts for 44% of Asia's defense budgets.

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Story summary

The International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) says China's military corruption purges have created deficiencies in the People's Liberation Army (PLA) command structure.
The purges have affected the Central Military Commission and top generals, hampering PLA readiness.
The report notes the supreme command has been reduced to two members, undermining morale and operational effectiveness.
The IISS says modernization will likely continue, as spending accounts for 44% of Asia's defense budgets.