In a stunning display of military might, China unveiled an array of cutting-edge weaponry during its 2025 Victory Day parade, signaling a bold assertion of its global power and technological prowess. The event, held on September 3, showcased advanced systems that span nuclear deterrence, hypersonic strikes, and cyber warfare capabilities, marking a pivotal moment in modern military history.
Among the highlights was the DF-61 intercontinental ballistic missile, a previously unseen nuclear-capable weapon that took center stage, drawing immediate attention from analysts who deemed it the parade’s most significant surprise. The display also confirmed the operational readiness of the DF5C missile, a long-rumored variant that reinforces China’s strategic advancements in nuclear capabilities.
The parade further revealed the JL3, a sea-based missile that completes China’s nuclear triad, alongside the DF17, a medium-range ballistic missile equipped with a hypersonic glide vehicle. This arsenal underscores China’s commitment to modernizing its military in response to perceived threats, particularly from the United States in the Indo-Pacific region.
In addition to nuclear advancements, China showcased an impressive range of anti-ship missiles, including the YJ series, designed to challenge U.S. naval superiority. The introduction of the CJ1000 hypersonic missile and the stealthy YJ21, dubbed a “carrier killer,” demonstrated China’s focus on precision strikes and the ability to penetrate advanced defenses.
The parade also highlighted the emergence of unmanned systems, with advanced drones like the GJ11 Sharps and the AJX2, emphasizing China’s shift toward integrated autonomous warfare. Notably, the Type 99A tank reaffirmed the importance of land forces amidst a broader trend of modernization across all military domains.
As the world watches closely, China’s display serves as a stark reminder of its military ambitions and readiness to project power across air, sea, land, space, and cyber domains. This event not only marks a significant milestone for China’s military capabilities but also raises critical questions about the future of global security dynamics. The implications of this showcase will reverberate far beyond China’s borders, demanding urgent attention from international observers.
