China unveils cutting-edge weapons at Beijing military parade
Photo: Some Chinese weapons are controlled by artificial intelligence (Getty Images)
At a military parade in Beijing, the Chinese army demonstrated its latest weapons and equipment. In particular, nuclear missiles, fighter jets, various types of drones, and much more were presented, according to the South China Morning Post.
Nuclear missiles
The first air-based JL-1 nuclear missile was presented on the roof of a military truck. This model is significantly smaller than the JL-3 submarine-based intercontinental ballistic missile, which was also presented at the exhibition.
These two missiles, along with the DF-61 and DF-31, are part of China's strategic nuclear arsenal.
Photo: JL-3 submarine-launched intercontinental missile (Getty Images)
The DF-5C missile can carry up to 10 independently targeted warheads. It was designed to destroy enemy military bases and critical infrastructure, underground facilities, and missile silos. This model is capable of covering the entire globe.
Anti-ship ballistic missiles
Among the many ballistic missile options, the DF-26D model was presented, a variant of the DF-26 medium-range missile. It can carry both nuclear and conventional warheads, with a range of up to 5,000 km.
It is called the Guam killer because the DF-26D can be used to strike US military bases in Guam, which could play a key role in a conflict in the Taiwan Strait. The DF-26D is considered an anti-ship ballistic missile, possibly designed to strike US naval targets in the western Pacific.
Photo: DF-61 ballistic missile (Getty Images)
Aircraft
Four types of carrier-based aircraft were presented at the demonstration, including the J-35 and J-15T.
For example, the J-35 is the latest deck-based stealth fighter, which is a landmark piece of technology for long-range and close-range maritime defense.
Photo: J-35 aircraft (Getty Images)
Chinese strategic bombers can now deliver more strikes thanks to the ability to refuel YY-20 HNAK aircraft in the air.
Photo: Y20 bomber (Getty Images)
Bombers were also presented, including the H-6J model, designed to replace the older H-6G model.
The H-6J has a new airframe with upgraded engines and avionics, and is armed with YJ-12 supersonic anti-ship cruise missiles.
Unmanned aerial vehicles
At the parade, China also presented unmanned combat aircraft and unmanned ship-based helicopters equipped with artificial intelligence. Reconnaissance and strike integrated unmanned aerial vehicles and underwater vehicles (XLUUV) were also presented.
These systems can carry out covert strikes, cover a wide area, and form autonomous swarms.
Unmanned surface vessels and unmanned mining systems were also shown at the parade.
Photo: HSU001 unmanned aerial vehicle (Getty Images)
Air defense systems
Among the many air defense systems presented, it is worth mentioning the HQ-22A model. This is a variant of the HQ-22 medium- and long-range air defense system. It has an operational range of up to 170 km (105 miles) and can engage a variety of air targets, including aircraft, missiles, and drones. This system is believed to have improved electronic countermeasures and enhanced target engagement capabilities.
Photo: HQ22A air defense system (Getty Images)
Also on display at the exhibition is the HQ-19, a variant of the HQ-9 system, which is an anti-ballistic missile and anti-satellite system. Compared to the American THAAD (Terminal High Altitude Area Defense) system, the HQ-19 is designed to intercept medium-range ballistic missiles in the mid and terminal phases of flight. The missile uses a kinetic warhead for interception with a kill-destroy target at an altitude of up to 200 km, making it a key part of China's strategic defense.
MLRS systems
The PHL-16 multiple launch rocket system, the so-called Chinese version of the highly mobile artillery and missile system (HIMARS), was also presented.
The PHL-16 is believed to play a significant role in potential contingencies in the Taiwan Strait due to its long-range strike capabilities.
Photo: HPL-16 (Getty Images)
Tanks
The Type 99B main battle tank was also shown at the parade. It's the latest version of China's third-generation Type 99 series tanks. It weighs 55 tons and uses 125 mm caliber guns. The tank has active protection systems, including a defensive laser for targeting both ground vehicles and helicopters.
Photo: LZ-11 tank (Getty Images)
On September 3, a military parade is being held in Beijing to celebrate the 80th anniversary of China's victory over Japanese invaders in World War II.
Russia's Vladimir Putin attended the parade with his representative and sat among the spectators next to Chinese leader Xi Jinping. Another neighbor of Putin in the stadium among the spectators was North Korean leader Kim Jong-un.
