TAIYUAN - A senior Chinese military official has urged the army not to slack off and be prepared for any possible military combat.

Efforts should be made to ensure that the military is capable of resolutely performing its duty to safeguard the country's national sovereignty, security and territorial integrity whenever it is needed by the Party and the people, said Xu Caihou, vice-chairman of China's Central Military Commission.

Xu made the remarks Thursday during a recent inspection to certain military units in North China's Shanxi province.

The military should improve its competence in the deterrent and operational missions under the condition of informationization, Xu said.

Xu also called on the officers to promote their senses in politics, comprehensive situation and responsibility.

The army should always keep its political resolution, ideological stability and unity, Xu said.

Moreover, Xu told the military to improve efforts to keep the soldiers well-informed of important current events and policies.