China reshuffled its top military ranks weeks before a once-in-a-decade generational leadership change which sources said would see the outgoing air force commander promoted to vice-chairman of the military's top decision-making body.

General Ma Xiaotian, 63, was named air force commander, replacing General Xu Qiliang, 62, state broadcaster CCTV said, according to Reuters.

Ma has been one of the secretive military's most visible faces, speaking at forums overseas and leading talks with U.S. defense officials aimed at building trust between the world's two largest economies.

The report did not say what would happen to Xu.

But three independent sources with ties to the top leadership and the People's Liberation Army said Xu was tipped to be named one of two vice-chairmen of the powerful Central Military Commission.

The government generally does not comment on elite politics and personnel changes before the official announcement.