China is set to launch deep reforms in its military establishment, focusing on building a strong army and modernizing the armed forces.

Chinese President Xi Jinping himself heads the group that is tasked to reform the military in ways that will strengthen the army's combat preparedness and effectiveness.

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According to Xi, reforming the military should be guided by the objective of building a strong army.

"National defense and military reforms are an important part and an important symbol of China's overall reform," said Xi, Chairman of the Central Military Commission.

The President, however, said that military reforms should be made in an "active yet prudent" manner, saying that the reforms must ensure the Communist Party's absolute leadership over the military.

"Important reform measures must be taken prudently because a slight move in one part may affect the situation as a whole," he said.

Xi added that there is an urgent need for the reforms especially among sensitive areas such as the strengthening of weak links in military effectiveness.

"The reforms should target key problems, with being able to combat and win battles as the focus," said Xi.

Xi said any reforms and modernization efforts should be done in a "timely, courageous and determined way."

Some of the areas needing reform include the power structure, commanding system and other military-related policies.

The CPC's goal, as laid out in a reform blueprint crafted in November, is to build modern armed forces with Chinese characteristics.