The Central Military Commission is the nation’s leading military organ and commander of its armed forces. The armed forces of the PRC consist of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army, the Chinese People’s Armed Police Force and the Militia. The main tasks of the PLA are strengthening national defense, resisting foreign aggression, defending and building up the motherland, and working hard to serve the people. The main tasks of the Armed Police Force include defending the frontiers, performing guard duties and maintaining public security. The Militia is an armed force of the masses who, when not on duty, remain engaged in their normal productive activities

The Central Military Commission is composed of a chairman, vice-chairmen and other members. The current chairman is Jiang Zemin.