Introduction

Under Xi Jinping we see a marked overhaul of the PLA which began with the introduction of his first set of reforms in 2015. The Central Military Commission dismantled its four general departments and restructured their mandates into 15 divisions, committees and offices under direct control of the main CMC leadership. Five theater commands came up namely Eastern, Southern, Northern, Western and Central. There was greater emphasis on discipline and political loyalty through extensive training and mandated study sessions.