On a significant Wednesday, marking the 80th anniversary of Japan’s defeat and the conclusion of the Second World War, China staged what is widely believed to be the largest military parade in its history. Hosted by President Xi Jinping, the event was more than a mere commemoration; it was an imposing exhibition of the nation’s rapidly advancing military capabilities and a clear signal of its strategic ambitions on the global stage. Flanked by leaders such as Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korea’s Kim Jong Un, alongside two dozen other dignitaries, the parade projected a united front among nations keen to challenge the existing US-led world order.
The meticulously choreographed spectacle along Beijing’s central Chang’an Avenue showcased an array of advanced military hardware, much of it unveiled to the public for the first time. From its opening 80-gun artillery salute to the dramatic fly-past of helicopters and fighter jets, the parade served as a powerful statement of China’s modernization program. President Xi Jinping himself underscored the gravity of the moment, warning the world that it must choose between “peace and war,” a pronouncement made amidst a display of weaponry that state media Global Times claimed placed the “entire world” under China’s strike range.
This in-depth examination delves into the cutting-edge arsenal that defined China’s Victory Day parade, dissecting the new technologies and their profound strategic implications. We explore the first six of these pivotal systems, analyzing how they reflect China’s intent to enhance its military might, project power globally, and reshape the geopolitical landscape through a blend of traditional military strength and innovative, high-tech warfare.
1. **Hypersonic Anti-Ship Missiles (YJ-series)**Among the most striking revelations at the parade were China’s new YJ-15 missile, presented alongside its existing YJ-17, YJ-19, and YJ-20 hypersonic missiles. These systems, short for “Ying Ji” or “eagle attack,” represent a significant leap in China’s capacity for anti-access/area denial (A2/AD) strategies. Designed to be launched from both ships and aircraft, their primary role is to inflict critical damage on large vessels, thereby posing a formidable threat to naval operations in contested waters.
China’s rapid advancement in hypersonic weapons technology has garnered considerable global attention, primarily due to its inherent ability to bypass traditional defense systems. The unique trajectory and extreme speeds of these missiles make interception exceedingly difficult, offering a decisive advantage in a naval engagement. This capability is of particular concern to the US Navy, which maintains its 7th Fleet headquarters in Japan and frequently patrols the western Pacific.
The anti-ship YJ-21, famously dubbed the “carrier killer,” exemplifies this advanced capability. Bloomberg reported that the YJ-21 is capable of achieving supersonic speeds and possesses an estimated range exceeding 600km. Such a weapon system dramatically complicates the operational calculus for any adversary naval force, potentially allowing China to project power and defend its maritime interests with unprecedented effectiveness against high-value naval targets.
The deployment of these sophisticated hypersonic anti-ship missiles underscores China’s commitment to developing asymmetrical advantages. By integrating these systems into its naval and air forces, Beijing aims to enhance its maritime deterrence, ensuring that potential adversaries face substantial risks when operating within what China considers its sphere of influence. This technological edge signifies a critical component of its evolving military doctrine.
Military equipment: YJ-21
IsMissile: true
Name: YJ-21
Type: Hypersonic weapon,anti-ship ballistic missile
Origin: China
Length: 8.3 m
VehicleRange: convert
Filling: Conventional
Speed: convert
Manufacturer: China Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology
Service: 2022–present
UsedBy: People’s Liberation Army Navy
LaunchPlatform: Type 055 destroyer
Categories: All stub articles, Anti-ship missiles of the People’s Republic of China, Articles containing simplified Chinese-language text, Articles with short description, Ballistic missiles of the People’s Republic of China
Summary: The YJ-21 (Chinese: 鹰击-21; pinyin: Yīngjī-èryāo; lit. ‘eagle strike 21’) is a Chinese hypersonic anti-ship ballistic missile.
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2. **Advanced Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles (DF-series ICBMs)**China showcased three new nuclear-capable intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) for the first time: the Dong Feng-61, Dong Feng-31BJ, and the Dong Feng 5C. These systems represent a considerable upgrade to China’s strategic nuclear forces, demonstrating a continued commitment to modernizing its deterrent capabilities. Their unveiling at the Victory Day parade was a clear message about China’s enhanced capacity for long-range strategic strikes.
The Dong Feng 5C, in particular, stood out with its estimated range of more than 20,000km, a characteristic that state media Global Times asserted places the “entire globe under its strike range.” This monumental reach is complemented by reported improvements in defence penetration and precision, making it a highly formidable component of China’s strategic arsenal. The ability to target any point on Earth significantly elevates China’s standing as a nuclear power.
Experts highlight another critical feature of the new variant of the Dong Feng 5C: its capacity to carry up to 12 warheads on a single missile. This Multiple Independently-targetable Reentry Vehicle (MIRV) capability substantially complicates an adversary’s missile defense systems, as each warhead can be directed at a different target. The potential for a single missile to deliver such a devastating blow significantly enhances China’s strategic deterrence posture.
These advanced ICBMs are foundational to China’s nuclear strategy, ensuring a credible second-strike capability and contributing to a policy of minimum deterrence. By demonstrating these systems, China sends a clear signal of its determination to safeguard its national interests through a robust and technologically sophisticated strategic force. The sheer scale and reach of these missiles underscore a profound shift in global power dynamics.
Military equipment: Aegis Ballistic Missile Defense System
Categories: All Wikipedia articles written in American English, All articles lacking reliable references, All articles needing additional references, All articles with dead external links, Articles lacking reliable references from June 2016
Summary: The Aegis ballistic missile defense system (Aegis BMD or ABMD), also known as Sea-Based Midcourse, is a Missile Defense Agency program under the United States Department of Defense developed to provide missile defense against short and intermediate-range ballistic missiles. The program is part of the United States national missile defense strategy and European NATO missile defense system.
Aegis BMD is an expansion of the Aegis combat system deployed on warships, designed to intercept ballistic missiles in mid-course phase (i.e., after the rocket burn has completed but prior to reentry into the atmosphere). Aegis BMD-equipped vessels can engage potential threats using the Standard Missile 3 mid-course interceptors and the Standard Missile 2 and Standard Missile 6 terminal-phase interceptors.
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3. **Air-Launched Strategic Nuclear Missiles (JL-1)**Adding another layer to its strategic nuclear forces, China revealed its first air-launched nuclear missile, the JL-1, which was prominently displayed on a military truck during the parade. This introduction marks a critical step in fully realizing China’s nuclear triad — the deployment of nuclear weapons from land-based missiles, submarine-launched missiles, and strategic aircraft. The JL-1 was showcased as part of the “first concentrated display” of the Chinese army’s “land, sea and air triad strategic nuclear forces,” as reported by state media CCTV.
The development and display of an air-launched nuclear missile significantly enhance the flexibility and survivability of China’s nuclear deterrent. Air-launched weapons offer advantages in terms of mobility and the ability to strike targets from various vectors, making them less susceptible to a pre-emptive strike and adding complexity for enemy missile defense systems. This airborne component provides an important layer of redundancy and resilience to China’s overall strategic capabilities.
The JL-1, alongside other Dong Feng and JL missiles, solidifies the three pillars of China’s nuclear posture. This integrated approach ensures that the nation possesses a comprehensive and credible deterrent across all domains of delivery. The existence of a robust nuclear triad reinforces China’s position as a major nuclear power, capable of projecting strategic influence and ensuring national security in an increasingly complex global environment.
By diversifying its nuclear delivery methods, China not only strengthens its deterrence but also modernizes its entire strategic force structure. This move reflects a broader trend among major powers to maintain and upgrade their nuclear arsenals to adapt to contemporary geopolitical challenges and technological advancements, securing its long-term strategic interests.
Military equipment: Nuclear triad
Categories: All Wikipedia articles in need of updating, All Wikipedia articles written in American English, All accuracy disputes, All articles with style issues, All articles with unsourced statements
Summary: A nuclear triad is a three-pronged military force structure of global-range land-based intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs), submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs), and strategic bombers with nuclear bombs and missiles. More broadly, it can sometimes be used to mean any nuclear force with land, sea, and air basing, and more limited range. Countries build nuclear triads to eliminate an enemy’s ability to destroy a nation’s nuclear forces in a first-strike attack, which preserves their own ability to launch a second strike and therefore increases their nuclear deterrence.
Four countries are known to have complete nuclear triad: the United States, Russia, India, and China. Israel possesses all three delivery platforms but its Popeye SLCMs and fighter bombers are not intercontinental range.
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4. **Extra-Large Uncrewed Underwater Vehicles (XLUUVs)**The parade also provided a glimpse into China’s burgeoning capabilities in underwater warfare with the display of two types of extra-large uncrewed underwater vehicles (XLUUVs). One such model, the AJX002 sea drone, was estimated to be around 60ft long, according to various reports. These torpedo-shaped hulls, combined with pump-jet propulsion systems, indicate a design philosophy prioritizing stealth and operational discretion in contested maritime environments.
These advanced underwater vehicles are engineered for stealth, allowing them to operate undetected for extended periods in sensitive areas. The pump-jet propulsion systems minimize acoustic signatures, making them difficult for adversaries to detect and track. The AJX002 also features four lifting lugs along its hull, suggesting that it is crane-assisted for deployment and recovery, further indicating its strategic operational intent.
China is reported to operate the world’s largest XLUUV program, with at least five distinct types already in service. This extensive development underscores a significant investment in autonomous underwater capabilities, which can be deployed for a variety of missions including reconnaissance, surveillance, anti-submarine warfare, and potentially even mine laying or precision strikes. The strategic uses for such stealthy, uncrewed platforms are vast and can significantly alter the balance of power in underwater domains.
The proliferation of XLUUVs allows China to extend its reach and presence beneath the waves without risking human crews. This capability is crucial for intelligence gathering and for challenging naval dominance in critical sea lanes. The emphasis on stealth and autonomy positions China as a leader in the next generation of naval warfare, indicating a long-term vision for maritime control and influence.
Military equipment: List of active Royal Navy ships
Categories: Articles with short description, Lists of Royal Navy ships, Lists of currently active military vehicles, Short description is different from Wikidata, Use British English from December 2016
Summary: The Royal Navy is the principal naval warfare service branch of the British Armed Forces. Its assets include both commissioned warships and non-commissioned vessels. As of mid-2025, there are 63 commissioned and active ships in the Royal Navy.
Of the commissioned vessels, sixteen are major surface combatants (two aircraft carriers, six guided missile destroyers and eight frigates) and nine are nuclear-powered submarines (four ballistic missile submarines and five fleet submarines). In addition the Navy possesses eight mine countermeasures vessels, twenty-six patrol vessels, two survey vessels, one icebreaker and one historic warship, Victory. The total displacement of the Royal Navy’s commissioned and active ships is approximately 399,000 tonnes.
The Royal Navy also includes a number of smaller non-commissioned assets. The naval training vessels Brecon and Hindostan can be found based at the Royal Navy stone frigates HMS Raleigh and the Britannia Royal Naval College, respectively. Non-commissioned Sea-class workboats, procured under Project Vahana, are operated by the Royal Navy in various support, survey and training roles, replacing previous P1000 Class Picket Boat vessels. This class of vessel also incorporates an autonomous minehunting variant (known as the Arcims-class), while another autonomous vessel, Madfox, is employed in varied roles including as a testbed for autonomous combat operations. Madfox and other experimental vessels, including XV Patrick Blackett and APAC-24 (a crewless Pacific 24 rigid-hulled inflatable boat), are operated by the Fleet Experimentation Squadron within the Disruptive Capabilities and Technologies Office. As of 2025, XV Excalibur, an Extra-Large Uncrewed Underwater Vehicle (XLUUV), was also operated by the Squadron while other autonomous surface vessels, for minehunting, were in service and in the process of procurement from Thales Group.
Besides the Royal Navy, the Royal Fleet Auxiliary (RFA) and the Royal Marines operate their own flotillas of vessels which complement the assets of the Royal Navy. These vessels are not included in this list or the above figures. Nevertheless, combined, the Royal Navy and RFA have 73 vessels with a total displacement of about 671,000 tonnes, with the principal landing craft of the Royal Marines having an additional combined displacement of about 2,200 tonnes.
As a supporting contingent of His Majesty’s Naval Service, the civilian Marine Services operate nearly 100 auxiliary ships (including coastal logistics, tugs and research vessels) in support of Royal Navy and Royal Fleet Auxiliary operations.
In the United Kingdom, the Royal Navy operates three main bases where commissioned ships are based: HMNB Portsmouth, HMNB Devonport and HMNB Clyde. A number of commissioned vessels, belonging to the University Royal Naval Units (URNU), are stationed at various other locations around the United Kingdom.
The Royal Navy’s principal overseas base is HMS Jufair in Bahrain. A general-purpose frigate and vessels belonging to the navy’s 9th Mine Counter-Measures Squadron are forward-deployed there. Two fast patrol boats, together with a forward-deployed River-class offshore patrol vessel, normally form part of the Gibraltar Squadron and are permanently based there. Four other River-class vessels are also forward-deployed: one in the Falkland Islands, one in the Caribbean and two in the Indo-Pacific region. Additionally, the United Kingdom maintains a Joint Logistics Support Base in Duqm, Oman.
All ships and submarines currently in commission with the Royal Navy were built in the United Kingdom, with the exceptions of icebreaker Protector which was built in Norway and survey vessel Magpie which was substantially built in Ireland. All commissioned vessels of the Royal Navy bear the ship prefix “HMS”, for His Majesty’s Ship or His Majesty’s Submarine.
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5. **Space Defence System (HQ-29)**A notable component of the parade’s prominent display of aerial power was the HQ-29 space defence system, exhibited for the first time. This system is explicitly described as capable of taking down foreign satellites, marking China’s overt demonstration of its anti-satellite (ASAT) capabilities. The unveiling signals China’s strategic focus on space as a critical domain for both national security and potential conflict.
While specific details regarding the HQ-29’s exact capabilities remain largely undisclosed, its substantial size implies an “extreme range similar to the US Navy’s SM-3 Block IIA.” The SM-3 Block IIA is a sophisticated interceptor missile capable of being launched from land or ship, designed to engage short- to intermediate-range ballistic missiles outside the Earth’s atmosphere. This comparison suggests the HQ-29 possesses considerable reach and destructive potential against orbital targets.
The strategic implications of such an anti-satellite system are profound. In an era where modern militaries heavily rely on space-based assets for communication, navigation, intelligence gathering, and precision targeting, the ability to neutralize an adversary’s satellites could provide a decisive advantage in a conflict. It underscores the vulnerability of space infrastructure and positions China as a significant player in orbital warfare.
Beijing’s public display of the HQ-29 indicates a clear intent to develop and operationalize counter-space capabilities as part of its comprehensive defense strategy. This move reflects a growing recognition among major powers that control of space is increasingly vital for military superiority, thereby intensifying the potential for a new dimension of strategic competition.
Military equipment: HQ-9
IsMissile: true
Name: HQ-9
Caption: An HQ-9 portable launcher during China’s 60th anniversary parade in 2009, Beijing
Origin: China
Type: Surface-to-air missile,Anti-satellite weapon,Anti-ballistic missile
UsedBy: #Operators
Manufacturer: China Aerospace Science and Industry Corporation
Service: 2001 – present
Weight: cvt
Length: cvt
Speed: Mach number
VehicleRange: 120 km (HQ-9)
Ceiling: 50 km (HQ-9B)
FillingWeight: 180 kg
Guidance: Semi-active radar homing
Propellant: Solid fuel
LaunchPlatform: HQ-9 ground-launched,
HHQ-9 surface-launched
Categories: All Wikipedia articles in need of updating, All articles lacking reliable references, All articles needing additional references, All articles that may contain original research, Anti-ballistic missiles of the People’s Republic of China
Summary: The HQ-9 (simplified Chinese: 红旗-9; traditional Chinese: 紅旗-9; pinyin: Hóng Qí-9; lit. ‘Red Banner-9’; NATO reporting name: CH-SA-9.) is a long-range semi-active radar homing (SARH) surface-to-air missile (SAM) developed by the People’s Republic of China. The naval variant is the HHQ-9 (simplified Chinese: 海红旗-9; traditional Chinese: 海紅旗-9; pinyin: Hǎi Hóng Qí-9; lit. ‘Sea Red Banner-9’). The HQ-9 and its export variants are developed by China Aerospace Science and Industry Corporation (CASIC).
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6. **Directed Energy Laser Weapons**China also unveiled two distinct versions of “directed energy” laser weapons during the parade, indicating a diversified approach to modern defensive and offensive technologies. One variant was specifically designed for naval air defense, intended to protect maritime assets from airborne threats. The other, mounted on a truck, was purposed for the protection of ground troops, addressing immediate tactical needs on the battlefield.
Beijing’s investment in laser weapons is driven by their cost-effectiveness compared to traditional kinetic weapons like missiles or radar-directed guns, especially in countering low-end threats such as drone attacks. Lasers offer a high-volume, precision engagement capability at a lower per-shot cost, making them ideal for sustained defense against swarm attacks or persistent surveillance by unmanned aerial systems. This economic advantage is crucial for long-term operational sustainability.
The display of laser weapons was part of a broader presentation of China’s comprehensive anti-drone systems. This integrated defense architecture included not only high-energy laser weapons but also missile guns and high-power microwave weapons. Such a multi-faceted approach demonstrates a sophisticated understanding of the evolving threats posed by unmanned systems and a commitment to developing layered defenses.
These directed energy weapons represent a critical advancement in China’s military technology, offering both defensive capabilities against airborne threats and potential offensive applications. Their deployment highlights a shift towards incorporating non-kinetic and high-tech solutions into military doctrine, enabling efficient engagement of diverse targets in complex modern warfare scenarios.
Continuing our examination of China’s formidable new military arsenal, the second half of the parade provided further insights into Beijing’s strategic vision, showcasing autonomous systems, enhanced airpower, and integrated defense mechanisms designed to shape its future military doctrine and global power projection. These systems collectively underscore China’s commitment to ‘intelligentised warfare’ and its ambition to achieve comprehensive military modernization.
Military equipment: Directed-energy weapon
Categories: All Wikipedia articles written in American English, All articles with dead external links, All articles with unsourced statements, Articles with dead external links from February 2024, Articles with dead external links from June 2012
Summary: A directed-energy weapon (DEW) is a ranged weapon that damages its target with highly focused energy without a solid projectile, including lasers, microwaves, particle beams, and sound beams. Potential applications of this technology include weapons that target personnel, missiles, vehicles, and optical devices.
In the United States, the Pentagon, DARPA, the Air Force Research Laboratory, United States Army Armament Research Development and Engineering Center, and the Naval Research Laboratory are researching directed-energy weapons to counter ballistic missiles, hypersonic cruise missiles, and hypersonic glide vehicles. These systems of missile defense are expected to come online no sooner than the mid to late 2020s.
China, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, Russia, India, Israel are also developing military-grade directed-energy weapons, while Iran and Turkey claim to have them in active service. The first use of directed-energy weapons in combat between military forces was claimed to have occurred in Libya in August 2019 by Turkey, which claimed to use the ALKA directed-energy weapon. After decades of research and development, most directed-energy weapons are still at the experimental stage and it remains to be seen if or when they will be deployed as practical, high-performance military weapons.
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Read more about: Beyond the Spectacle: What China’s Military Parade Reveals for Asia and a Reordering World
7. **Stealth Attack Drones (“Loyal Wingman”)**Among the most forward-looking technologies on display were China’s stealth attack drones, specifically highlighted as “loyal wingmen.” This concept signifies a revolutionary approach to air combat, where unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are designed to operate in seamless coordination with manned fighter jets, augmenting their capabilities and extending their reach in contested airspace. The integration of such drones represents a strategic leap, enabling a single pilot to command multiple aerial assets simultaneously.
These “loyal wingman” drones are envisioned to perform a variety of critical roles, including reconnaissance, electronic warfare, missile carriage, and even acting as decoys or sacrificial assets to protect more valuable manned aircraft. By providing an additional layer of offensive and defensive capability, they can significantly increase the combat effectiveness and survivability of fighter squadrons. The ability for these unmanned systems to absorb risk allows human pilots to operate with greater tactical freedom and safety.
The development of such highly autonomous and coordinated drone systems necessitates sophisticated artificial intelligence and advanced communication protocols. China’s public display of these capabilities underscores its rapid advancements in military robotics and autonomous warfare, suggesting a future where air combat will be characterized by integrated human-machine teams. This technological frontier promises to reshape doctrines of aerial engagement and power projection, offering a potent force multiplier.
Military equipment: Boeing MQ-28 Ghost Bat
Name: MQ-28 Ghost Bat
Caption: MQ-28 Ghost Bat at the 2023 Avalon Airshow
Categories: 2020s Australian attack aircraft, Aircraft first flown in 2021, Aircraft with retractable tricycle landing gear, All Wikipedia articles written in Australian English, All articles lacking reliable references
Summary: The Boeing MQ-28 Ghost Bat, previously known as the Boeing Airpower Teaming System (ATS), is a stealth, multirole, unmanned combat aerial vehicle developed by Boeing Australia for the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF). It is designed as a force multiplier aircraft capable of flying alongside crewed aircraft for support as part of an integrated system (loyal wingman) including space-based capabilities, and performing autonomous missions independently using artificial intelligence.
As of October 2024, eight Block 1 vehicles have been built with more than 100 hours of flight testing. Operational tests have taken place at Australia’s RAAF Woomera Test Range Complex approximately one out of every three months, with the aircraft flying one to three sorties daily, including some flights at night. The aircraft has also been operated from RAAF Base Tindal demonstrating the ability to be deployed from a Boeing C-17 Globemaster III and also be controlled by an airborne Boeing E-7 Wedgetail. Three additional Block 2 airframes featuring an improved wing and GPS/INS will be produced by 2025.
As of 2025, the aircraft are designed and built in Melbourne at Boeing Aerostructures Australia with future production planned in Wellcamp, Toowoomba. The wing is Boeing’s largest resin-infused single composite component, featuring electromechanical actuators and controllers for the primary flight control system, and has a modular, swappable mission nose package system. Live fire testing of air-to-air weapons is planned for late 2025.
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8. **Robot Dogs for “Intelligentised Warfare”**Further emphasizing its commitment to future warfare paradigms, China presented a legion of robot dogs, a stark illustration of Beijing’s escalating focus on what it terms “intelligentised warfare.” These robotic units, prominently paraded atop armored vehicles, signify a strategic investment in autonomous ground combat systems. Their deployment suggests a vision where machines will increasingly augment or even replace human soldiers in various battlefield roles.
The potential applications for these robot dogs are diverse and substantial. They could be utilized for critical tasks such as advanced reconnaissance in hazardous environments, carrying supplies to frontline troops, or even as platforms for direct combat. The possibility of weaponizing these units, enabling them to engage adversaries autonomously or semi-autonomously, raises profound questions about the ethics and implications of future warfare, a conversation that is already underway globally.
China’s public unveiling of these robotic systems signals a clear intent to leverage artificial intelligence and robotics to gain a decisive advantage on the battlefield. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance operational efficiency, reduce human casualties, and introduce new dimensions of tactical flexibility. The “intelligentised warfare” doctrine reflects a comprehensive effort to integrate cutting-edge technologies across all domains of military operations, from logistics to direct engagement.
9. **Long-Range Cruise Missiles (Changjian and Yingji series)**The parade also showcased a sophisticated array of cruise missiles, including the Changjian-20A, Yingji-18C, and Changjian-1000. These systems represent a crucial component of China’s conventional long-range strike capabilities, designed to engage targets with high precision over vast distances. Their presence highlights China’s commitment to developing a diversified and robust missile arsenal, capable of reaching far beyond its immediate territorial waters.
These cruise missiles are distinguished by their “all-weather combat capabilities,” ensuring their operational effectiveness under diverse environmental conditions, day or night. The Changjian series, known for land-attack roles, would enable precision strikes against critical enemy infrastructure, command centers, or fixed installations. The Yingji-18C, conversely, is recognized for its advanced anti-ship capabilities, posing a significant threat to naval vessels through its complex flight profile and terminal maneuverability.
The integration of these long-range cruise missiles into China’s military doctrine provides commanders with enhanced options for power projection and deterrence. They expand the engagement envelope, allowing China to hold distant targets at risk and challenge the operational freedom of potential adversaries in critical maritime lanes and beyond. This expansion of conventional strike range complements China’s nuclear deterrent, offering a graduated response capability.
Military equipment: China and weapons of mass destruction
CountryName: China
FirstTest: October 16, 1964
FirstFusion: December 28, 1966
LastTest: July 29, 1996
LargestYield: Atmospheric – 4 Mt (November 17, 1976),Underground – 660~1,000 kt (May 21, 1992)
CurrentStockpile: 600 (estimated)
MaximumRange: 15,000 km
NptParty: Yes (1992, one of five recognized powers)
Categories: 1964 in military history, All Wikipedia articles written in American English, All articles containing potentially dated statements, All articles lacking reliable references, All articles with unsourced statements
Summary: The People’s Republic of China has possessed nuclear weapons since the 1960s. It was the last to develop them of the five nuclear-weapon states recognized by the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). China acceded to the Biological Weapons Convention (BWC) in 1984, acceded to the NPT in 1992, and ratified the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC) in 1997.
China tested its first nuclear bomb in 1964 and its first full-scale thermonuclear bomb in 1967. It carried out 45 nuclear tests before signing the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty in 1996.
The number of nuclear warheads in China’s arsenal is a state secret. There are varying estimates of the size of China’s arsenal. The Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists and the Federation of American Scientists estimated in 2025 that China has a stockpile of approximately 600 nuclear warheads, making it the third-largest in the world. It is the only nuclear weapons state significantly expanding its arsenal, which has doubled since 2019, and is projected to reach between 750 and 1,500 warheads by 2035. Unlike the US and Russia, nearly all Chinese warheads are thought to be stored separately from their delivery system.
Since 2020, China has operated a nuclear triad, alongside four other countries. Of its 600 warheads, it is estimated 376 are assigned to Dongfeng intermediate and intercontinental ballistic missiles, 72 to Julang-3 submarine-launched ballistic missiles on Type 094 submarines, and 20 to air-launched ballistic missiles on Xi’an H-6N bombers. A remaining 132 warheads await assignment.
In 1964, China adopted a policy of no-first-use (NFU), which it renewed in its 2023 national defense policy. Some of its nuclear forces are reported to have moved toward a launch on warning (LOW) posture in the early 2020s.
China denies offensive chemical and biological weapons capabilities under the respective treaties, while the U.S. alleges it is not in compliance with all obligations. Scholars agree information on an current offensive chemical weapons program is extremely limited, allowing either a small clandestine program or no program at all. In its declaration to the CWC, China claimed it destroyed three chemical weapon production facilities and its existing stockpile. The Imperial Japanese Army use of chemical weapons during the Second Sino-Japanese War resulted in an estimated 700,000 to 2 million abandoned chemical weapons in China. Many are improperly stored, unlocated, or buried. As of 2023, less than 100,000 of these have been recovered, with joint work between China and Japan to destroy them. They are estimated to have caused 500 to 2,000 injuries and at least 5 deaths in China.
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10. **Tactical Hypersonic Missiles (DF-17 and DF-26D)**Building upon China’s formidable hypersonic capabilities, the parade featured tactical hypersonic missiles such as the Dong Feng-17 (DF-17) and Dong Feng-26D (DF-26D). While the strategic ICBMs focus on global reach, these tactical variants are designed for theater-level engagement, offering unprecedented speed and maneuverability to overwhelm existing missile defense systems. Their inclusion underscores a multi-tiered approach to hypersonic weapon development, catering to various operational requirements.
The DF-17, known for its hypersonic glide vehicle, follows an unpredictable trajectory, making interception exceedingly difficult for conventional ballistic missile defenses. This agility, combined with extreme speed, allows it to rapidly strike high-value targets within a regional conflict scenario. The DF-26D, often referred to as the “Guam killer,” further solidifies China’s anti-access/area denial (A2/AD) strategy by targeting moving naval assets, particularly aircraft carriers, at ranges far exceeding traditional anti-ship missiles.
Both the DF-17 and DF-26D are equipped with “all-weather combat capabilities,” ensuring their readiness and effectiveness regardless of atmospheric conditions. Their deployment significantly enhances China’s capacity to deter or neutralize naval forces in critical areas of the Western Pacific, complicating any intervention by external powers. These tactical hypersonic missiles represent a pivotal component in China’s strategy to control escalation and project regional military dominance, fundamentally altering the calculus of conventional warfare.
11. **Comprehensive Anti-Drone Systems**The parade offered an integrated view of China’s “full range of anti-drone systems,” presenting a layered defense architecture explicitly designed to counter the burgeoning threat posed by unmanned aerial vehicles. This comprehensive approach reflects a deep understanding of modern warfare’s evolving landscape, where inexpensive yet effective drones can pose significant challenges to traditional military assets. The display showcased not only high-energy laser weapons, which were detailed earlier, but also missile guns and high-power microwave weapons, illustrating a multi-faceted strategy.
Missile guns, a component of this layered defense, provide a kinetic solution for engaging larger or more robust drone threats, offering precise targeting and rapid response. High-power microwave weapons represent another crucial element, capable of disabling or neutralizing drone swarms by disrupting their electronic systems over a wide area. This non-kinetic capability is particularly effective against massed attacks, offering a distinct advantage in mitigating saturation tactics that can overwhelm conventional defenses.
The necessity for such comprehensive anti-drone systems stems from the proliferation of unmanned technologies and the tactical challenges they present, including swarm attacks, persistent surveillance, and precision strike capabilities. By integrating various technologies—kinetic, laser, and microwave—China demonstrates a sophisticated strategy to create resilient and adaptable defenses against diverse airborne threats, safeguarding its military assets and critical infrastructure against contemporary and future drone warfare.
Military equipment: Loitering munition
Categories: Aerial warfare, All Wikipedia articles needing clarification, All articles containing potentially dated statements, All articles with dead external links, All articles with specifically marked weasel-worded phrases
Summary: A loitering munition, also known as a suicide drone, kamikaze drone, or exploding drone, is a weapon with a warhead that is typically designed to loiter until a target is designated, then crash into it. They enable attacks against hidden targets that emerge for short periods without placing high-value platforms near the target area. Unlike many other types of munitions, their attacks can be changed mid-mission or aborted. Loitering munitions are typically aerial platforms, but include some autonomous undersea vehicles with similar characteristics.
Loitering weapons emerged in the 1980s for the Suppression of Enemy Air Defenses (SEAD) role, and were deployed for SEAD by some military forces in the 1990s. In the 2000s, they were developed for additional roles, from long-range strikes and fire support to short-range tactical systems that fit in a backpack.
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Read more about: Ukraine’s Latest Defense: Missile-Armed Crop Duster Takes Flight Against Drones
12. **Strategic Bombers and Fighter Jets Formations**Capping the aerial display, squadrons of fighter jets and strategic bombers flew in meticulously choreographed formations, painting a vivid picture of China’s modernized air force. This impressive fly-past was not merely a ceremonial flourish but a powerful demonstration of China’s advanced airpower capabilities, designed to project strength and operational readiness to both domestic and international audiences. The sight of helicopters forming the number “80” further underscored the commemorative and symbolic significance of the event.
The inclusion of strategic bombers in this formation signals China’s development of long-range strike capabilities, essential for power projection far from its borders and for maintaining a credible conventional and potentially nuclear deterrent. These aircraft, often supported by advanced fighter jets ensuring air superiority, form the backbone of a modern air force capable of executing complex missions across vast operational theaters. The seamless coordination observed during the parade speaks to a high level of training and technological integration within the People’s Liberation Army Air Force.
This display of airpower serves a crucial strategic purpose: to underscore China’s capacity to defend its national interests, project influence, and engage in high-intensity modern conflicts. The continuous modernization of its fighter jet fleet and the expansion of its strategic bomber capabilities are central to China’s ambition to become a world-class military. The formations conveyed a message of unity, discipline, and technological prowess, reinforcing the narrative of a nation rapidly ascending as a global military power.
Military equipment: Strategic bomber
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Summary: A strategic bomber is a medium-to-long-range penetration bomber aircraft designed to drop large amounts of air-to-ground weaponry onto a distant target for the purposes of debilitating the enemy’s capacity to wage war. Unlike tactical bombers, penetrators, fighter-bombers, and attack aircraft, which are used in air interdiction operations to attack enemy combatants and military equipment, strategic bombers are designed to fly into enemy territory to destroy strategic targets (e.g., infrastructure, logistics, military installations, factories, etc.). In addition to strategic bombing, strategic bombers can be used for tactical missions. There are currently only three countries that operate strategic bombers: the United States, Russia and China.
The modern strategic bomber role appeared after strategic bombing was widely employed, and atomic bombs were first used during World War II. Nuclear strike missions (i.e., delivering nuclear-armed missiles or bombs) can potentially be carried out by most modern fighter-bombers and strike fighters, even at intercontinental range, with the use of aerial refueling, so any nation possessing this combination of equipment and techniques theoretically has such capability. Primary delivery aircraft for a modern strategic bombing mission need not always necessarily be a heavy bomber type, and any modern aircraft capable of nuclear strikes at long range is equally able to carry out tactical missions with conventional weapons. An example is France’s Mirage IV, a small strategic bomber replaced in service by the ASMP-equipped Mirage 2000N fighter-bomber and Rafale multirole fighter.
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Read more about: China’s Ascendant Naval Power: Unpacking Beijing’s Maritime Strategy and Its Implications for the South China Sea and Beyond
As this deep dive into China’s Victory Day parade arsenal concludes, it becomes clear that Beijing is not merely upgrading its military; it is fundamentally reshaping its entire defense posture. The unveiling of hypersonic missiles, advanced ICBMs, autonomous underwater vehicles, space defense systems, laser weapons, loyal wingman drones, robot dogs, sophisticated cruise missiles, and a modernized air force signals a comprehensive, strategic shift. China’s military modernization program reflects an unwavering commitment to developing innovative, high-tech capabilities that challenge existing global power dynamics and redefine the parameters of future warfare. This formidable array of weaponry, much of it displayed for the first time, leaves little doubt about China’s determination to secure its national interests and assert its strategic ambitions on the global stage, urging a careful consideration of its profound geopolitical implications.
