China Shows Military Might in Major Parade on 80th WWII Anniversary
BEIJING: China is showcasing its military strength in a major parade on Wednesday, featuring missiles, fighter jets, and other advanced weaponry — some on public display for the first time.
The parade, held in the nation’s capital, is led by President Xi Jinping, who also heads the Communist Party and the Central Military Commission. Xi is set to deliver a speech marking the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, with about two dozen foreign leaders attending.
First Public Display of Advanced Weapons
Chinese military officials said many of the weapons and equipment will be seen publicly for the first time. Highlights include:
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Land, air, and sea-based strategic weapons
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Advanced precision warfare technology
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Military drones
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Fighter jets and helicopters flying in formation
The display demonstrates China’s growing military capabilities and serves as a show of strength, aimed at instilling national pride and signaling readiness to defend the country.
International Attendance
The parade draws mostly invited guests, including Russian President Vladimir Putin, North Korea’s Kim Jong Un, and the president of Iran. Many Western leaders, along with officials from Japan, India, and South Korea, are staying away.
Several Southeast Asian leaders were scheduled to attend, though Indonesia’s president canceled due to domestic protests.
Parade Security and Organization
The event is highly choreographed and tightly controlled. Public access is limited:
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Barriers keep spectators at least a block away
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Commercial buildings along the route are closed for the day
This is China’s first major military parade since 2019, when the country celebrated the 70th anniversary of the Communist Party’s founding. Analysts say the parade not only honors history but also highlights China’s expanding military power, which draws attention from neighboring countries and the United States.
