Since the 18th CPC National Congress, the PLA has pressed ahead with thorough investigations to root out corruption, resolutely punishing corrupt officials, no matter how high-ranking they were. "We must strengthen our sense of mission and urgency and strive to achieve leapfrog development in the modernization of our armed forces," Xi stressed. COMBAT READINESS FOR PEACEThe ability to fight and win is essential to building a strong military, Xi has stressed on many occasions. The entire armed forces have focused all their efforts on combat readiness, enhancing their capability to prevail in future wars. With enhanced combat preparedness, the Chinese military grows more capable of serving its ultimate goal of safeguarding peace.