The Chinese defense ministry says a high-ranking official of China's top military body is under investigation for suspected serious breaches of discipline.

The ministry's spokesperson told reporters on Thursday that Miao Hua, a member of the Central Military Commission and the head of its political section, has been suspended from his post.

It is unusual for China to reveal disciplinary violations of a senior military official at a news conference.

Miao, who is from Fujian Province, is said to be a close aide to President Xi Jinping. Xi spent years of his political career in the province.

The crackdown is the latest in a series of dismissals involving high-ranking military officials over corruption and other breaches.

Among them are former defense ministers Li Shangfu and Wei Fenghe, as well as a former commander of the military's Rocket Force, which manages nuclear and missile arsenals.

Britain's Financial Times reported that Defense Minister Dong Jun is under investigation on suspicion of corruption.

The Chinese defense ministry spokesperson denied the report, introducing Dong's recent activities.

The spokesperson called the report a complete fabrication and said China expresses its strong dissatisfaction.