China Prepares for Grand Military Parade to Mark WWII Anniversary

China is set to hold a significant military parade on September 3, 2025, in Beijing, commemorating the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II following Japan’s surrender. This event will feature tens of thousands of participants and showcase an array of advanced weaponry previously unseen by the public. Military officials announced at a press conference that the parade will include hundreds of aircraft, such as fighter jets and bombers, along with ground equipment, highlighting the capabilities of the People’s Liberation Army.

The upcoming parade marks the second such event since 2015, which also celebrated the formal surrender of Japanese forces in 1945. This year’s display is expected to serve as a demonstration of China’s military strength, especially as regional neighbors and Western nations closely observe the evolving capabilities of the Chinese military. Recent years have seen an increased projection of power by the People’s Liberation Army, raising concerns among many international observers.

Military attaches and analysts anticipate the introduction of new technologies at the parade, including trucks equipped with systems designed to neutralize drones, advanced tanks, and early warning aircraft intended to bolster the security of China’s aircraft carriers. Additionally, attention will be focused on the latest additions to China’s missile arsenal, particularly anti-ship variants and hypersonic weapons, as the United States and its allies strategize against potential regional conflicts.

According to Wu Zeke, deputy director of the military parade, the new armaments will significantly demonstrate the military’s adaptability to technological advancements and its preparedness for future warfare. While officials have not disclosed the exact number of personnel or equipment that will be showcased, they confirmed that a considerable proportion of the display will feature these advanced systems.

Details of the Commemoration

The 70-minute “Victory Day” parade will unfold at Tiananmen Square, presided over by President Xi Jinping, who will be joined by various foreign leaders, including Russian President Vladimir Putin. The 2015 parade saw participation from over 12,000 soldiers and more than 500 military vehicles, alongside 200 aircraft. Notably, the previous event witnessed a boycott from several Western leaders, who were cautious about the implications of China’s military display.

Security measures in downtown Beijing have intensified since the commencement of rehearsals earlier this month. Authorities established checkpoints, redirected traffic, and temporarily closed shopping centers and office buildings. Two large-scale rehearsals took place on the weekends of August 9-10 and August 16-17, involving approximately 22,000 and 40,000 participants, respectively, including troops and police.

Officials have announced that preparations for the parade are nearing completion, ensuring a meticulously organized event that aims to leave a lasting impression on both domestic and international audiences. As the date approaches, the world will be watching closely, eager to see how China presents its military advancements and commemorates a pivotal moment in global history.