On September 3, 2025, Beijing’s Tiananmen Square became the stage for China’s most ambitious military exhibition yet. As the world watched, President Xi Jinping presided over a spectacle of technological might—the Victory Day Parade marking the 80th anniversary of WWII. Among the high-tech hardware on display: hypersonic missiles, shipboard laser cannons, autonomous marine drones, and a full strategic nuclear triad. Western analysts have described the showcase as a bold message to U.S. power in the Pacific.
Hypersonic Strikes & Anti-Ship Arsenal
China paraded a formidable lineup of hypersonic and supersonic anti-ship missiles—including the YJ‑15 (ramjet supersonic), YJ‑17 (hypersonic glide vehicle), YJ‑19 (scramjet-powered hypersonic cruise missile), and YJ‑20 (aeroballistic/hypersonic), all designed to target naval vessels with speed and evasive capability. Analysts warn these are clearly meant as countermeasures to U.S. naval dominance.
Laser Systems & Anti-Drone “Iron Triangle”
The powerful LY‑1 laser weapon made its debut on an armored truck platform. Driven by domestic claims, it’s designed for precision hard-kill capability—capable of disabling drones and missiles with low interception cost.
Paired with microwave weapons and missile/artillery systems, these form a layered anti-drone “iron triangle”—a comprehensive counter-UAS defense strategy.
Underwater Drone Threats & Surface Denial Strategy
Uncrewed underwater platforms were prominently featured: sleek 60-foot drone submarines with pump-jet propulsion and larger variants like the HSU-100, hinting at reconnaissance and potentially nuclear-strike roles. Analysts liken them to Russia’s Poseidon systems.
The Full Nuclear Triad & ICBM Reach
For the first time, China publicly displayed its nuclear triad—land (DF‑5C ICBM with >20,000 km range), sea-based systems, and the JL‑1 air-launched ballistic missile, signaling strategic reach and deterrence.
Technological Synthesis & Symbolism
The parade showcased an impressive array of next-gen systems—including new Type 100 tanks, modular rocket artillery, amphibious armored vehicles, and wingman-style drones supporting manned aircraft. These not only reflect capability but also signal China’s readiness for multi-domain conflict.
Strategic Implications
Regional Deterrence: Hypersonic and naval weapons are tailored to counter U.S. and allied naval forces in the Indo-Pacific.
Modernization Showcase: The “iron triangle” of anti-drone weaponry underscores China’s investment in advanced counter-UAS systems.
Strategic Posturing: The nuclear triad and advanced missiles are non-verbal messages of deterrence.
Development vs. Deployment: Observers caution some systems are still prototypes, possibly not ready for full-scale deployment.
