Nuclear Weapons, Sea Drones & Hypersonic Missiles: China’s 'Power Parade' Stuns the World

International News: On Wednesday, China demonstrated its military power to the world in Beijing. A spectacular glimpse of missiles, fighter planes, drones and modern weapons was seen in the grand parade organized on this occasion. This parade was organized on the completion of 80 years since the end of World War II. President Xi Jinping led this parade and about two dozen foreign leaders were also present during this time. This event drew the attention of not only Asia but the whole world to Beijing.

First glimpse of new weapons

The biggest attraction of the parade was the weapons that were made public for the first time. It included land, sea and air missiles, stealth drones, and precision target weapons. Fighter planes and helicopters performed spectacular stunts in the sky.

• The JL-1 nuclear missile and the DF-5C intercontinental ballistic missile were the most discussed.
• The DF-5C has a range of over 13,000 kilometers and can carry 10 independent warheads simultaneously.
• The CJ-1000 hypersonic cruise missile and the HQ-29 anti-ballistic missile were also displayed at the parade.
• The HQ-29 is designed to target missiles and satellites in space.

Strength of the Navy and Air Force

China also demonstrated the growing power of its Navy and Air Force.

• The J-35 and J-15T carrier-based stealth fighter jets were shown publicly for the first time.
• The J-35 is considered to be China's most modern stealth fighter.
• The H-6J long-range bomber was also a part of the parade, which is equipped with YJ-12 anti-ship missiles.
• The Y-20A and Y-20B transport aircraft also made their presence felt.
• The Y-20B is equipped with WS-20 engines developed by China, which make it more powerful.
• The KJ-600 AWACS aircraft took part in the parade for the first time.
• It is capable of monitoring up to 1,200 kilometers.

Strength of AI drones and unmanned systems

Artificial intelligence (AI)-based drones and unmanned systems were also showcased in the parade.

• Special drones were presented for stealth attacks and large area surveillance.
• These included attack drones, unmanned wingmen and shipborne helicopters.
• Special unmanned vehicles were shown for the army and navy, which can perform tasks like clearing mines, delivering ammunition, and evacuating the wounded safely.
• Apart from this, the DF-26D missile and the YJ-15 carrier killer missile were also the center of attraction.
• The DF-26D has a range of 5,000 kilometers and is capable of carrying both nuclear and conventional weapons.
• The YJ-15 is specially designed to destroy enemy warships.

Strength of tank and rocket launcher

• China displayed the new Type 99B tank.
• It is equipped with a 125mm cannon and laser defense system.
• It has been deployed in high-altitude areas like Tibet before.
• Apart from this, the PHL-16 rocket launcher was also displayed.
• It is considered an important weapon for long-range attacks in the Taiwan Strait.
• Experts described it as equivalent to the US HIMARS system.