Beijing’s streets turned into a showcase of cutting-edge military hardware over the weekend, as the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) rehearsed for its upcoming Victory Day parade. Photos and videos shared online revealed a formidable array of new weaponry, highlighting China’s growing military ambitions.
Among the most eye-catching systems were new hypersonic anti-ship missiles, including the YJ-17, YJ-19 and YJ-20. The YJ-17 appears to carry a hypersonic glide vehicle, while the YJ-19’s air-breathing scramjet resembles the Russian Zircon missile. The YJ-20, with its aerodynamic design, is believed to be a manoeuvrable re-entry vehicle.
Observers also noted what could be an upgraded road-mobile intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) system, seen mounted on a new transport-erector-launcher vehicle. Covered by a tarp, the massive missile canister and the vehicle’s distinctive single-side cab suggest a previously unseen design.
In addition to missile systems, the rehearsal featured a range of unmanned platforms. These included large underwater drones such as the AJX002 — measuring up to 20 metres in length — and another even bigger, shrouded model. Comparisons have already been drawn to Russia’s Poseidon nuclear-powered torpedo.
One of the more striking vehicles spotted was a camouflage-painted, boxy eight-wheeled carrier believed to house a high-powered laser weapon, indicated by its “HZ” designation. Analysts suggest this could be a new directed-energy air defence system adapted from naval platforms.
The PLA also unveiled its next-generation armoured vehicles, including a new light tank smaller than the Type 99A. Equipped with active protection systems, radar, laser weapons and an unmanned turret fitted with a 105mm gun, the vehicles appear to integrate human operators with advanced AI-assisted technology. Crews were seen wearing AR/VR headsets and smartwatches, hinting at enhanced digital connectivity on the battlefield.
Supporting vehicles such as new infantry fighting vehicles, fire support systems, and airborne mortar carriers were also spotted. Alongside them, a wide range of drones and unmanned ground vehicles were transported into position.
The rehearsal, which involved around 40,000 personnel, took place from Saturday night into Sunday morning near Tiananmen Square. It was the second full-scale practice ahead of the September 3 parade, which will commemorate the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II.
A PLA spokesman stressed that all the showcased weapons are domestically developed and already in service, underscoring China’s intent to demonstrate its readiness for “future wars” and its ability to adapt to rapidly evolving military technology.
