Who are the officers filling the big shoes left behind in PLA anti-corruption drive?

New cohort of lieutenant generals has stepped up to lead key PLA bodies, SCMP analysis of state media footage from key meetings reveals

Many have assumed major portfolios previously held by full generals, having recently been promoted from within their respective departments. Several others attained the rank of lieutenant general less than a year ago, according to the SCMP tally, even though they are roughly the age their full general predecessors were when assuming the same leadership roles.

“Many of them have had a relatively short tenure as lieutenant generals, but they are fulfilling the duties of full generals,” noted a Chinese political expert who requested anonymity because of the sensitivity of the matter.

“These lieutenant generals will face challenges – they haven’t served as senior military leaders long enough. Compared to more senior full generals, they need time to adapt to a higher perspective and establish leadership within their departments,” the expert added.

A defining moment

These internal shifts come at a pivotal moment for China’s military and political trajectory.