As for the differences made to the armed forces, and the goals of the latest round of reforms, here's what an expert has to say.

"Renaming the 2nd Artillery Force as the Rocket Force is a return to its real function, because the Force has for a long time been operating as a military branch. The change makes the force more open and transparent. But it will not change China's nuclear policy. Its nuclear power will always be maintained at a minimum level for national security,"

"Upgrading the general command of land force is good for downsizing departments and staff. It creates favorable conditions for joint operation, because the management of the land force and other services has been unified,"

"As for the strategic support force, it better coordinates the cooperation between forces on the battlefield and logistic support. It will increase comprehensive logistic service capability," said Major General Du Wenlong, PLA Academy of Military Science.