China's Military Might on Display: Key Takeaways from the Recent Parade

Mon Oct 20 2025 23:16:08 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

China showcased new military equipment, signaling its growing power to the world. Here's what the latest parade revealed about China's military capabilities.

China recently held a massive parade to unveil its latest weapons and military technology, sending a clear message to the United States and its allies. Foreign leaders, including those from Russia and North Korea, attended the event, highlighting China's influence on the global stage. The parade featured many new and innovative military technologies, including advanced missiles, AI-powered drones, and robotic systems, leading experts to reflect on the developments in China's military strategy and how they measure up against U.S. capabilities.

China has unveiled a range of new weapons, drones, and other military hardware in a massive parade that many see as a clear message to the United States and its allies.

The event saw Xi Jinping host more than 20 foreign heads of state, including Russia's Vladimir Putin and North Korea's Kim Jong Un, both of whom rely on China for economic support and more.

It was a display of Xi's growing power on the world stage and of China's military prowess - the show included the Guam killer missile, the loyal wingman drone, and even robotic wolves.

Here are our key takeaways from the event:

1. China has a lot of weapons. How well can it deploy them?

China has been able to quickly produce a diverse range of weapons. The technology they showcased has evolved significantly from rudimentary copies of U.S. military systems. Experts note that China's military-industrial complex is now more innovative, particularly in drones and missiles.

However, integrating these advanced systems effectively remains a challenge due to the Chinese military's size and lack of recent combat experience.

2. Focus on missiles to counter the U.S.

The parade highlighted China's array of advanced missiles, key components of its strategy to deter U.S. military dominance, including intercontinental and hypersonic missiles designed for rapid response and precision strikes.

3. Advances in AI and drones

Among the most eye-catching exhibits was the AJX-002, a large uncrewed underwater vehicle, signaling China's commitment to using AI and drones to modernize its military strategies.

4. Despite progress, the U.S. retains an edge

Experts believe the U.S. military maintains an advantage in operational flexibility and decision-making dynamics, allowing it to adapt more effectively to changing battlefield conditions.

5. The parade serves as a sales pitch

With numerous foreign leaders in attendance, the event was not only a display of military might but also an opportunity for China to promote its arms to potential international buyers, signaling its intent to extend influence globally.

This display of military strength coupled with a united front with leaders like Putin and Kim is a clear message to the U.S., highlighting the complexities of international security dynamics and the potential theaters of conflict.