People's Liberation Army

Force in Play

As of May 2026: Undergoing rapid modernization and anti-corruption purge; CMC reduced to two members after January 2026 removal of top generals

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