From Hypersonic Missiles to Nuclear Drones: China’s Parade Worries Western Powers

From giant underwater torpedoes to cutting-edge laser weapons capable of downing drones, China's latest military parade has drawn the attention of Pentagon analysts and defence experts worldwide for closer evaluation.

The People's Liberation Army (PLA) is undergoing an extensive modernisation drive that has enabled it to catch up with, and in some areas surpass, the United States. Hypersonic missile technology-capable of travelling at more than five times the speed of sound-is one such domain where China currently leads.

Dr. Sidharth Kaushal, a missile specialist at the London-based think tank RUSI, points to the YJ-17 hypersonic glide vehicle and the YJ-19 hypersonic cruise missile as examples of this capability.

China is also investing heavily in artificial intelligence and autonomous weapons. A striking example is the AJX002, a massive 60-foot (18-metre) underwater nuclear-capable drone.

Although China's nuclear stockpile remains in the hundreds-far fewer than the thousands held by Russia and the United States-it is expanding rapidly, with growing emphasis on innovative delivery systems.

Parade Fuels Social Media Frenzy in China

The parade has dominated online conversations across China, with nearly all of the top 50 trending topics on Weibo tied to the event. While state censorship ensures tight control during such occasions, the sheer intensity of discussion has been evident.

Much of the online buzz centres around newly showcased weapons, including the intercontinental ballistic missiles DF-61 and DF-5C, the latter noted for its global strike potential. Other hot topics include the J-20 stealth fighter jets, 99B tanks, and China's new laser weapons.

Historical Significance of September 3

The parade coincides with China's observance of September 3 as the Victory of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression (1931-1945). This date follows Japan's formal surrender on September 2, 1945.

For China, the significance lies in its early and prolonged resistance against Japan, beginning in 1931. The conflict cost over 35 million Chinese lives, tied down 1.5 million Japanese troops, and provided vital support to Allied operations in the Pacific theatre.

The commemoration is marked across the country with ceremonies, parades, and moments of remembrance.