State media reported on Saturday that President Xi Jinping on Thursday inspected a brigade of the People's Liberation Army's Rocket Force, urging the troops to boost their "deterrence and combat capabilities."

During the inspection Xi also urged the strategic missile troops to "resolutely fulfil the tasks entrusted by the Party and the people," Xinhua news agency reported.

The PLA Rocket Force, which oversees the country's conventional and nuclear missiles, has been tasked with modernising China's nuclear forces.

During the inspection, Xi stressed the need to "adhere to political guidance, strengthen mission responsibility," and "promote high-quality development of the force construction," according to Chinese media outlet Cailianshe. (Reuters)