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The parade marks the 80th anniversary of Japan’s defeat in World War II and is expected to be one of China’s largest displays of military power in years
Chinese President Xi Jinping with Russian President Vladimir Putin at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit. (AP photo)
China is set to unveil a wide array of advanced weapons on Wednesday during a major military parade in Beijing, in what many see as a direct challenge to US military dominance.
The event will be attended by Chinese President Xi Jinping, Russian President Vladimir Putin, and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.
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The parade marks the 80th anniversary of Japan’s defeat in World War II and is expected to be one of China’s largest displays of military power in years.
New Missiles On Display
Among the most talked-about weapons are four new anti-ship missiles: YJ-15, YJ-17, YJ-19, and YJ-20. These are designed to strike large enemy vessels and may include hypersonic capabilities, meaning they can travel at least five times the speed of sound.
Military analysts say such weapons are aimed at deterring US naval forces in areas like the Taiwan Strait and the South China Sea.
“China must develop powerful anti-ship and anti-aircraft carrier capabilities to prevent the US from posing a serious threat to China’s national security,” Song Zhongping, a military commentator and former Chinese army instructor, told news agency AFP.
Underwater Drones
China will also showcase uncrewed underwater vehicles (XLUUVs), which resemble large torpedoes. One model, labelled AJX002, is estimated to be around 20 metres long. Another was seen hidden under a cover during rehearsals.
According to Naval News, China now leads the world in XLUUV production, despite still lagging behind the US in overall naval power.
Advanced Anti-Missile System
Another highlight is the HQ-29, which some experts call a “satellite hunter”. It could intercept missiles or even satellites at altitudes up to 500 kilometres, well beyond the Earth’s atmosphere.
If confirmed, this would be China’s most advanced missile defence system yet.
Mega Laser Weapon
A large camouflaged vehicle seen during rehearsals is rumoured to carry a high-powered laser capable of shooting down drones and missiles.
Chinese military-linked sources claim it may be “the most powerful laser air defence system in the world”, though no official confirmation has been given.
Nuclear Missiles And Armoured Vehicles
The parade is also expected to feature new intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) that can carry nuclear warheads. Zhongping said these are meant to help “equalise the military power balance” with the US.
New tanks and armoured vehicles have also been spotted. One tank appears slightly smaller than the Type 99A, China’s current main battle tank, and could represent a new generation of land warfare equipment.
Global Show Of Strength
Over 1,000 musicians, 80 buglers, and thousands of troops will participate in the event. Spectators at Tiananmen Square will sit on green, red, and gold chairs — said to symbolise fertile land, sacrifice, and peace.
Leaders from Russia, North Korea, Iran, Serbia, and Slovakia will attend, while most Western leaders are staying away. The guest list has prompted some analysts to call it a gathering of the “axis of autocracies”.
All eyes will be on how Xi, Putin, and Kim interact, with the event seen as both a military demonstration and a geopolitical message.
(With inputs from AFP)
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The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d…Read More
The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d… Read More
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