Beijing: China marked the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II with a massive military parade in Beijing, unveiling some of its most advanced weapons systems and projecting an image of growing strategic power. The event, attended by Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, highlighted China’s bid to challenge Western dominance and reframe wartime history.
For the first time, China publicly displayed its complete nuclear triad, demonstrating the ability to launch nuclear strikes from land, sea and air. The lineup included the Jinglei-1 air-based missile, the Julang-3 submarine-launched ballistic missile, and land-based systems such as the Dongfeng-61, Dongfeng-31, and the multiple-warhead Dongfeng-5C.
The parade also featured an array of hypersonic and long-range cruise missiles. Among them were the Yingji-17, Yingji-19, Yingji-20, Yingji-21, Dongfeng-17 and Dongfeng-26D, alongside cruise missiles like the Changjian-20A, Yingji-18C and Changjian-1000. Officials described them as capable of operating in all-weather combat environments, underlining their strategic reach.
In addition to missile systems, China unveiled directed-energy weapons as part of what it called an “anti-drone triad.” These included missile guns, high-energy lasers and high-power microwave systems, reflecting a growing focus on countering drone threats. Unmanned aerial and underwater systems were also paraded, including reconnaissance and strike drones, ship-launched helicopters and mine-laying platforms, signaling advances in integrated maritime warfare.
Chinese President Xi Jinping used the occasion to stress China’s commitment to peace while warning of the nation’s readiness to defend its interests. His remarks sought to elevate China and the former Soviet Union’s role in World War II, while downplaying that of the United States.
The event drew mixed reactions internationally. Russia and North Korea’s participation underscored deepening ties with Beijing, while many Western countries avoided high-level attendance. Australia notably downgraded its representation. Taiwan voiced strong criticism, with President Lai Ching-te stating that “Taiwan does not commemorate peace with the barrel of a gun.” Taiwan’s Mainland Affairs Council reiterated the Republic of China’s sacrifices during the war, accusing Beijing of distorting history.
The showcase of new-generation weapons and advanced systems underscored China’s ambition to modernize its military, strengthen deterrence and expand influence in the Asia-Pacific. The parade, while framed by Beijing as a tribute to history and peace, was also a clear message of its military readiness in an increasingly tense global landscape.