5. A more confident and assertive military force
Analysts say the White Paper underscores the growing confidence of China's modernising military force. In laying out its military strategy in the paper for the first time, Beijing can claim to be increasing the transparency of the PLA to the outside world, while warning off those deemed to have ill intentions towards the country.
"China now feels that the area it needs to defend has grown - and it is no longer held back by its military's limitations," says Dr Wang Xiangsui from Beihang University.
The military's budget has seen double-digit increases for years, as China seeks to modernise its forces. It added its first aircraft carrier in 2012 and is today the world's second-largest military spender, although it lags far behind the United States.
Now that China's forces are stronger, it is natural for it to increase its capabilities and area covered, says Dr Wang.