It is also aimed at building a firm defense and strong military commensurate with China's international standing and interests in security and development.

The reform will maintain "a correct political direction," the guideline said, adding that the "CPC's absolute leadership of the armed forces" must be consolidated and perfected.

The "CMC chairman responsibility system" must be fully implemented to ensure the top leadership of the armed forces is centralized in the hands of the CPC Central Committee and the CMC.

The guideline also said that the only fundamental standard for military reform is whether the changes can improve fighting capacity.

Describing the defense and military reform as a systematic and revolutionary transformation, the guideline said the reform is unprecedented in its scope and for the interests it touches upon.

"Thus, [the reform] must be under the central leadership of the CPC Central Committee, the CMC and CMC Chairman Xi," it said.

The guideline urged CMC organs established in the reform to fulfill their responsibilities as soon as possible, and transitional work must also be done well.

During the transitional period, measures must be taken to "make sure personnel do not lose control and assets do not lose value, while all matters are handed over seamlessly."

The management of military land and housing should be strengthened, it said.

The guideline also asked the military to enforce strict disciplines during the reform process.