In a bold move demonstrating their deep frustration and fury over persistent graft within the Communist Party, China's leadership has initiated corruption investigations into two former defense ministers. The decision, announced on the same day, aims to address the threat that corruption poses to China's fighting capacity and nuclear deterrence, according to analysts.

The party's 24-person Politburo unanimously agreed to launch probes into Wei Fenghe and his successor Li Shangfu, subsequently expelling them from the party. State news agency Xinhua released statements revealing that both men would face criminal charges from military prosecutors.

Wei, who served as China's defense minister for five years, and Li, who was replaced just seven months after assuming the position, have been accused of betraying the trust of the party and the Central Military Commission (CMC), as well as causing significant damage to the party's cause, national defense, military construction, and the image of senior leaders. Observers noted the unusually harsh wording used in the statements against the two former defense ministers.

The severity of the accusations is especially striking when compared to similar cases involving former vice-chairmen of the CMC, Xu Caihou and Guo Boxiong, who were previously sacked for corruption during President Xi Jinping's first term. Analysts emphasize that the unusually strong language reflects the party's anger and fury towards their alleged betrayals, particularly in relation to control over China's nuclear arsenal.

Wei Fenghe held several critical positions over two decades, including those related to China's nuclear arsenal and his role as the first chief of the newly formed rocket force in 2015. Both of his successors in the rocket force, Zhou Yaning and Li Yuchao, were also ousted last year. On the other hand, Li Shangfu, Wei's successor as defense minister, had a long-standing career in the military's equipment sector, which has likewise faced extensive corruption investigations.

These recent corruption probes have raised new questions. While Wei is accused of accepting bribes, Li is accused of both accepting and giving bribes. However, the statement does not provide details on when or whom Li allegedly sought to bribe. Analysts view this as a compelling aspect deserving further investigation, especially considering Li's already prominent position within the military.

While some argue that corruption within the People's Liberation Army (PLA) exposes weaknesses in China's military capabilities, others believe that addressing such issues may actually enhance the force's fighting capacity. The periodic corruption probes within the military should not be seen as a sign of weakness in President Xi's role as the CMC chairman. Observers point out that Xi's control over the PLA is stronger than that of any of his predecessors, with significant reforms implemented since late 2015.

Amidst the ongoing anti-corruption drive, known as "hunting down tigers," experts believe that eliminating corrupt senior officials will provide hope and better prospects of promotion for honest and capable junior officials. However, the latest corruption case has shed light on the need for improved checks and balances to restore confidence in China's nuclear deterrence, particularly within the rocket force.

The implications of these corruption probes on the PLA's modernization efforts, particularly regarding equipment, remain limited according to military commentators. China's military structure will need further reforms to prevent future instances of corruption from occurring.

As the Communist Party takes stringent measures to combat graft within its ranks, it remains dedicated to building a strong and clean military, which President Xi Jinping has repeatedly emphasized as essential for China's future.