China marked the 80th anniversary of its World War II victory with a massive military parade at Beijing’s Tiananmen Square. The event, attended by over 50,000 people, included world leaders such as Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean Supreme Leader Kim Jong Un. The scale and symbolism underscored Beijing’s determination to project military and geopolitical strength.
DF-5C: The Showstopper ICBM
The Dongfeng-5C (DF-5C) intercontinental ballistic missile was the most closely watched unveiling. With a range exceeding 13,000 km, it can strike the US and Europe with devastating force. Analysts estimate its payload at 3–4 megatons, nearly 200 times the Hiroshima bomb. The DF-5C strengthens China’s nuclear deterrence and fuels concerns over its second-strike capabilities.
YJ-17: Hypersonic Anti-Ship Threat
China also showcased the YJ-17, a next-generation anti-ship missile. Equipped with a hypersonic glide vehicle, it can reach speeds above Mach 5 and evade interception. Designed to threaten aircraft carriers and naval fleets, the YJ-17 highlights Beijing’s efforts to reshape the balance of power in the Pacific Ocean.
CJ-20A and LY-1: Expanding Strike and Defence Options
The CJ-20A air-launched cruise missile, deployed from H-6K bombers, extends China’s strike range to 2,500 km. This precision weapon targets high-value assets deep in enemy territory.
Meanwhile, the LY-1 high-energy laser weapon represents China’s leap into directed-energy warfare, capable of disabling drones, missiles, and surveillance systems — a potential game-changer in contested maritime zones.
Drones and Underwater Warfare
The parade also featured advanced unmanned systems. Ship-launched drones and the HSU-100 unmanned underwater vehicle (UUV) highlighted China’s growing focus on autonomous warfare. The HSU-100 is reportedly capable of deep-sea reconnaissance and maritime operations, giving the Chinese navy an edge in undersea dominance.
Global Reactions and Strategic Implications
The event reinforced concerns in Washington, Tokyo, and European capitals about China’s growing military assertiveness. With Taiwan tensions, South China Sea disputes, and China’s alignment with Russia and North Korea, the parade projected unity and readiness for future conflicts.
