Zhang Youxia

Force in Play

Under investigation for serious violations of discipline and law since January 2026

China's National People's Congress formally approved a 7% defense budget to 1.94 trillion yuan ($277 billion) in March 2026, a new record, while setting the country's lowest GDP growth target since 1991. Military spending has outpaced economic growth every year for over a decade.

Updated May 31

Force in Play

Under investigation for 'serious violations of discipline and law'

Xi Jinping appointed all seven members of China's Central Military Commission in 2022. By February 2026, only two remained: Xi and anti-corruption chief Zhang Shengmin. The investigation of Zhang Youxia, Xi's childhood friend and the PLA's most senior combat-experienced officer, marks the most dramatic purge of China's military leadership since the Cultural Revolution.

Updated May 23