China's Military Parade: A Bold Display of Armaments and Strategy

Tue Sep 30 2025 05:10:40 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

China showcases an extensive array of new military technology in a massive parade emphasizing its strength and readiness amid rising tensions with the US. The event signals a strategic shift towards advanced weaponry and international military alliances.

China's recent military parade served as a compelling showcase of its latest military innovations, including advanced missiles and drones, underscoring its growing defense capabilities. Key takeaways from the event highlight China's significant advancements in weaponry and its strategic messaging to the US and its allies, while raising questions about its operational agility and the overarching effectiveness of its military integration.

China has unveiled a range of new weapons, drones and other military hardware in a massive parade that many see as a clear message to the United States and its allies.

The event saw Xi Jinping host more than 20 foreign heads of state, including Russia's Vladimir Putin and North Korea's Kim Jong Un, both of whom rely on China for economic support and more.

It was a display of Xi's growing power on the world stage, and of China's military prowess - the show included the Guam killer missile, the loyal wingman drone and even robotic wolves.

Here are our five takeaways:

1. China has a lot of weapons. How well can it deploy them?

What was clear from the display is that China has been rapidly producing a diverse range of weapons. Ten years ago, many technologies they showcased were considered rudimentary copies of advanced US equipment. This parade revealed a more innovative and diverse selection, especially in drones and missiles, showcasing advancements in their defense-industrial complex.

China's centralized structure and ample resources enable swift production, potentially overwhelming adversaries with sheer volume. However, the critical question remains: can they effectively integrate these systems in combat given their lack of recent major conflicts?

2. China is focusing on missiles to counter the US

The parade featured several missile types including the Dongfeng-61, capable of carrying multiple warheads, and the Guam Killer Dongfeng-26D, emphasizing China's strategic shift towards missile-based deterrence against US naval power.

3. China is going all in on AI and drones

Among the showcased drones was the AJX-002 submarine drone and the GJ-11 stealth drone, indicating a significant pivot towards uncrewed vehicles in modern warfare. Experts noted these tools echo lessons from the Ukraine war regarding drone utilization.

4. China may have the technology, but the US still has an edge

While China's advancements in arms are notable, experts believe the US retains an operational advantage due to its more flexible military decision-making processes compared to China's top-down approach.

5. The parade was a weapons sales pitch – and a chance to show the US a united front

The event served not only as a demonstration of military capacity but also as a platform for arms sales to potential buyers. With prominent allies in attendance, the display signaled to the US that it may face challenges on multiple fronts if conflicts arise.