China Plans Large-Scale Military Parade to Mark WWII Anniversary
Next month, China is set to organize a significant military parade in Beijing to mark the 80th anniversary of the surrender of Japan, signaling the end of World War II. This event will involve tens of thousands of participants and showcase advanced weaponry.
The parade will feature a range of aircraft, including fighter jets and bombers, alongside high-tech armaments like precision strike weapons capable of reaching speeds five times that of sound. These details were shared during a press conference by military officials.
This will be the second parade since 2015 to commemorate Japan’s formal surrender in September 1945, and it aims to demonstrate China’s military prowess amid ongoing concerns about the People’s Liberation Army’s growing power in recent years.
Officials expect to unveil a variety of new weapons and technology, including tanks, drones, and early warning aircraft designed to enhance the safety of Chinese airspace.
Particular attention will be given to the development of various missiles, especially those optimized for anti-ship capabilities and hypersonic technology, as the U.S. and its allies brace for potential regional conflicts with China.
Wu Zeke, the deputy director overseeing the parade, indicated that the innovations showcased reflect advancements in military technology and evolving warfare strategies. He noted that these developments underline the military’s capacity to secure future victories.
While the total number of troops, weapons, and equipment to be displayed hasn’t been disclosed, officials mentioned that the new armaments will make up a substantial portion of the parade.
The “Victory Day” parade, lasting about 70 minutes, will occur on September 3. President Xi Jinping will review the formations at Tiananmen Square, joined by various foreign leaders, including Russian President Vladimir Putin, who attended the previous event in 2015.
During the last World War II commemorative parade, over 12,000 troops participated, alongside representatives from countries like Russia, Belarus, Mongolia, and Cambodia, as well as war veterans.
Authorities have mobilized over 500 military vehicles and 200 aircraft for this year’s event. There is some skepticism, however. Many Western leaders boycotted the 2015 parade, wary of the implications of such a military display. Former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, for instance, did not attend.
At that time, notable foreign attendees included former leaders like Gerhard Schroeder of Germany and Tony Blair from the UK.
Details about the participation of foreign military forces or leaders in the upcoming parade have not been disclosed.
Since starting rehearsals earlier in the month, security measures in Beijing have tightened, with checkpoints and traffic detours set up, as well as the closure of shopping centers and offices in the downtown area.
Authorities reported conducting major rehearsal weekends with 22,000 to 40,000 participants, including military personnel, police, and spectators. As of Wednesday, preparations for the parade appear to be nearly finalized.
