China unveils advanced weapons in largest-ever military parade

China showcased a sweeping range of new weapons in its biggest military parade to date, signaling deterrence to the United States, regional rivals and potential buyers of its defense technology, according to Reuters.

Among the highlights was the first public display of China’s full nuclear triad — land, sea and air-based systems. This included the upgraded DF-5C intercontinental ballistic missile with a near-global range of 20,000 km and the new road-mobile DF-61 long-range missile. Analysts said these moves underscore Beijing’s bid to demonstrate strategic reach.

At the regional level, China presented weapons designed to dominate nearby seas, including torpedo-shaped drones, hypersonic missiles and the DF-26 medium-range missile capable of striking naval targets and U.S. bases such as Guam. Together, these systems could complicate U.S. and allied operations in East Asia, particularly in a Taiwan conflict scenario.

Other debuts included the Type-100 main battle tank equipped with reconnaissance drones and air defense systems, as well as newly formed aerospace, cyberspace and electronic warfare units. The display emphasized China’s push to integrate advanced technologies across multiple domains.

While doubts remain over whether all the systems are fully operational or still in field testing, analysts noted the sophistication of China’s presentation.

«Western militaries may still have an operational edge, but there is no doubt China is rapidly catching up,» said security analyst Alexander Neill.