China is set to showcase an extensive array of advanced weaponry during a large-scale military parade in Beijing on September 3, in a demonstration widely interpreted as a challenge to U.S. military dominance.
The parade, which will be attended by Chinese President Xi Jinping, Russian President Vladimir Putin, and other world leaders, has already generated significant attention as military experts and enthusiasts scrutinize rehearsal footage and images. Observers have identified several new systems, including anti-ship missiles, underwater drones, missile interception systems, and potentially a large laser weapon.
Among the notable weapons are four new anti-ship missiles โ the YJ-15, YJ-17, YJ-19, and YJ-20 โ part of Chinaโs “Ying Ji” or “eagle attack” series. These missiles, which can be launched from ships or aircraft, are designed to target large vessels, including aircraft carriers.
The YJ-17, YJ-19, and YJ-20 may be hypersonic, capable of traveling at least five times the speed of sound. Military analysts say these systems strengthen Chinaโs ability to counter U.S. naval power in contested areas like the Taiwan Strait and South China Sea.
In addition, China has displayed massive unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs), including an 18-20 metre-long AJX002, marking the countryโs largest program of extra-large UUVs in the world.
A highly anticipated anti-missile system, the HQ-29, is described as capable of intercepting missiles outside the Earthโs atmosphere and even targeting satellites in low orbit. Another potential highlight is a massive laser-based air defense system, claimed by some reports to be the worldโs most powerful, designed to neutralize missiles and drones.
The parade is also expected to feature intercontinental ballistic missiles capable of carrying nuclear warheads, signaling Chinaโs efforts to modernize its nuclear arsenal. Additionally, new armored vehicles, including a next-generation tank slightly smaller than the Type 99A, are anticipated.
Experts suggest that if all equipment displayed is domestically produced and operational, China has significantly upgraded its armed forces relative to other global militaries. While the parade is largely ceremonial, it provides a clear signal of Chinaโs expanding military capabilities and technological advancements.
