Beijing Hosts Grand Military Parade Showcasing New Weapons

Beijing Display of Military Might On September 2, AP reports that China's capital, Beijing, is the stage for a grand military parade this Wednesday, showcasing an array of missiles, fighter jets, and other military hardware. Some of this equipment will be publicly displayed for the first time.

Xi Jinping to Lead Commemoration Troops will march in precision before President Xi Jinping, who holds the dual roles of leader of the Communist Party and chairman of the Central Military Commission. Xi is set to deliver a keynote speech during the event, which marks the 80th anniversary of the conclusion of World War II.

Global Leaders in Attendance The parade's audience features about two dozen foreign leaders, each looking to strengthen or maintain their relations with Beijing.

Debut of New Weapons Chinese military officials have confirmed that much of the weaponry and equipment revealed in the parade are being shown to the public for the first time. This includes strategic weapons from land, sea, and air forces, advanced precision warfare instruments, and drones, as well as aircraft formations of warplanes and helicopters soaring overhead.

A Spectacle of Strength This marks China's first major military parade since 2019, celebrating the 70th anniversary of the founding of communist China. This week's event commemorates the end of a war that left an indelible mark on China.

Instilling National Pride The parade serves as a reassurance to the Chinese population of the nation's military prowess amid global uncertainties. However, China's advancing military power continues to concern its Asian neighbors and the United States.

Prominent Leaders to Attend Notably absent are US and Western European leaders, along with the heads of Japan, India, and South Korea. Yet, North Korea's Kim Jong Un will make a rare appearance abroad. He will join other significant figures, such as Russian President Vladimir Putin and Iran's president. Several Southeast Asian leaders will also attend, though Indonesia's president will not due to domestic protests.

Parade for Invited Guests Designed as a carefully orchestrated and controlled occasion, the parade is not open to public viewing along the streets. Instead, barriers will keep the public at a one-block distance, and commercial buildings along the route will temporarily close. For many, television and online streams offer the only view of the proceedings.

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