China has removed nine senior military officials from its top legislative body, the National People's Congress.

The NPC Standing Committee made the announcement on Friday without giving reasons.

A Hong Kong media outlet says the dismissals include top officials of the military's Rocket Force. It says that could be related to a corruption probe reportedly under way into procurements by the force, which manages nuclear and missile arsenals. There is speculation that the leadership is carrying out a major crackdown.

Some foreign media reports say former defense minister Li Shangfu was involved in the case. Li was dismissed in October without an immediate replacement.

The Standing Committee on Friday appointed Dong Jun, former top commander of the Chinese Navy, as a new defense minister.

On Wednesday, three senior executives of military-related companies were removed from office at the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, a top-level advisory body.