The warnings reflect the Chinese government’s effort to “discipline” the PLA, which Chinese President Xi Jinping said faced “deep-seated” internal problems.

Beijing has launched a series of drives to root out suspected corruption from within the army, including by removing top leaders such as Li Shangfu, the former Chinese defence minister, who was expelled from his party for a “serious violation of party discipline and the law”.

Several top leaders from the PLA’s rocket force, which is in charge of China’s nuclear programme, have also been expelled over suspected corruption.

In recent weeks, President Xi has carried out close inspections of the rocket force and airborne troops. In an inspection on Oct 9, he urged the rocket force to improve their strategic deterrence and combat capabilities.

He also carried out another inspection of airborne troops on Monday and Tuesday of this week, emphasising the need to strengthen their military training and combat readiness.