China is set to showcase a range of new, domestically-produced weapons at a massive military parade on Wednesday, September 3, in Beijing. The event, which commemorates the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, is being viewed as a significant display of strength and a challenge to US military dominance.
While the full list of hardware remains a secret, military enthusiasts and analysts have identified several key new systems from recent rehearsals:
- Hypersonic Anti-Ship Missiles: Four new missiles from the “Ying Ji” (Eagle Attack) series—the YJ-15, YJ-17, YJ-19, and YJ-20—are expected to be displayed. The YJ-17, YJ-19, and YJ-20 models are believed to be hypersonic, capable of flying at least five times the speed of sound.
- Extra-Large Uncrewed Underwater Vehicles (XLUUVs): Two new, torpedo-shaped underwater drones have been spotted. One, labeled “AJX002,” is estimated to be 18 to 20 meters long. According to experts, China has the world’s largest XLUUV program.
- Advanced Anti-Missile Shield: The HQ-29, a new anti-missile system, is shrouded in mystery but is described by some as a “satellite hunter” capable of intercepting missiles at an altitude of 500 kilometers, outside the Earth’s atmosphere, as well as low-orbit satellites.
- “Most Powerful” Laser Weapon: A large, camouflaged vehicle covered with a tarpaulin has led to speculation that it is a new high-energy laser defense system. An account linked to the Chinese military claimed it is the “most powerful laser air defense system in the world.”
- New Nuclear Weapons: Analysts anticipate a prominent display of intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs), suggesting China will showcase a new generation of nuclear weapons to help “equalise the military power balance between China and the US.”
- Next-Generation Armored Vehicles: A new tank, slightly smaller than the Type 99A main battle tank, has also been spotted.
Military experts note that if the equipment displayed is indeed domestically produced and in active service, it signifies a major upgrade for China’s armed forces. However, they caution that the parade’s ceremonial setting does not allow for a full assessment of the weapons’ actual capabilities.
