Xi Jinping boards new Chinese fighter jet

BEIJING: Chinese President Xi Jinping hopped into the cockpit of a new bomber jet during an inspection of the armed forces at Xi'an in northwest China's Shaanxi Province.

Xi, also chairman of the Central Military Commission, visited the training centre and the tarmac of a bomber squadron yesterday. While inspecting various aircraft, the Chinese President entered the cockpit of a new bomber jet.

He enquired about the capabilities and features of the aircraft, and told the pilots to improve their combat skills to ensure that "battles can be won at crucial moments", state-run Xinhua news agency reported.

Xi's inspection tour on the eve of the Chinese lunar year took place in the midst of massive crackdown on some of the top military officials who were accused of indulging in corruption.

Xi also visited the offices of the provincial military area and extended Spring Festival greetings to all those in service nationwide.

He ordered military officers to strictly observe political rules and be committed to the absolute leadership of the Communist Party of China (CPC).

Calling senior officers "the crucial few", Xi said they should take the lead in strengthening the troops and advancing combat readiness and fighting capacity.

He asked the officers to stay clean and use their power in accordance with law, Xinhua report said.