In a spectacle that underscored shifting global dynamics, China on Wednesday staged a massive military parade in Beijing to commemorate the 80th anniversary of Japan’s surrender in World War II, leaving the world to ponder the balance of power in the 21st century.
Chinese President Xi Jinping, joined by Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, presided over the ceremony at Tiananmen Square, where China showcased some of its most advanced military technologies to date.
The parade, dubbed “Victory Day,” featured more than 10,000 troops, hundreds of armored vehicles, aerial flyovers, and cutting-edge weapons that stunned observers worldwide. At least 50,000 people attended, alongside delegations from over 25 nations, including close allies such as Iran. Notably, most Western countries boycotted the event, with only Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico and Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic representing Europe.
Xi, in his keynote speech, declared China’s rise as “unstoppable” and reaffirmed Beijing’s commitment to socialism with Chinese characteristics. “The Chinese nation is never intimidated by any bullies and always forges ahead,” he told the cheering crowd.
A showcase of next-generation weaponry
Central to the spectacle was the unveiling of weapons that demonstrated China’s rapid strides in defense innovation and self-reliance. Highlights included:
Hypersonic glide and cruise missiles capable of traveling beyond Mach 5, surpassing many Western systems.
The J-20 “Mighty Dragon” stealth fighter jet, China’s answer to America’s F-35.
The LY-1 directed-energy laser system (DEW), touted as the world’s most powerful ground-based laser for intercepting missiles and drones.
The JL-1 air-launched ballistic missile, unveiled for the first time.
A fleet of autonomous systems, including submarine drones, unmanned boats, helicopters, and advanced UAVs.
Analysts suggested the demonstration was a deliberate signal to Washington, especially amid rising tensions over Taiwan and the South China Sea.
Trump lashes out from afar
Former US President Donald Trump took to his Truth Social platform to accuse Xi, Putin, and Kim of conspiring against America.
“The big question is whether President Xi will mention the massive support and blood that the United States of America gave to China during its struggle for freedom,” Trump posted, adding that many American soldiers who fought in Asia “should be honored and remembered.”
He sarcastically sent “warm regards” to Putin and Kim while warning against what he described as an anti-US alliance.
Who holds the world’s strongest military?
Experts remain divided on whether China is catching up with the United States militarily. While Beijing’s technological advances are impressive, analysts note the US still maintains an edge in combat culture, strategy, and operational flexibility.
Michael Raska, assistant professor at Singapore’s Nanyang Technological University, told the BBC that China’s top-down command structure limits the autonomy of units in the field. “You can have flashy platforms and systems, but they will not move a finger until they receive an order from the top,” he said.
By contrast, the US military thrives on decentralized decision-making, enabling greater adaptability in combat situations.
Still, the Beijing parade leaves no doubt that China intends to project itself as a superpower equal to, if not eventually surpassing, the United States.
