Does China's Civilian Leadership Control It's Military?

U.S. Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates talks with Chinese President and Chairman of the Central Military Commission Hu Jintao at the Hall of the People in Beijing, Jan. 11, 2011. DOD photo by U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Jerry Morrison

Gates Cites 'Disconnects,' But Says China's Leaders Do Control Military -- Voice of America

U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates says in spite of concerns that China's civilian leaders did not know about a key military test this week, he is confident that they have full control of the People's Liberation Army, which includes the country's naval and air forces.

When China made the first test flight of its new radar-evading fighter jet Tuesday during Secretary Gates' visit to Beijing, U.S. officials were concerned that the country's civilian leaders, including President Hu Jintao, showed surprise when Secretary Gates asked about it.

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More News On Chinese Civilian Control Over Its Military

Gates warns of civil-military disconnect in China -- AFP
Gates: No doubt on civilian control of China military -- Reuters
Gates confident of China leader's control over military -- L.A. Times
China: Gates Sees Disconnect Between Military Leaders -- New York Times
US defense secretary Robert Gates warns of leadership 'disconnect' in China -- Times of India
Has Hu Really Lost Control of the Chinese Military? -- The Chosun Ilbo