China Displays Advanced Weapons, Exposes Military Limitations in Victory Day Parade

China's military parade on September 3, 2025, commemorating the 80th anniversary of World War II's end, showcased advanced weaponry such as hypersonic missiles, intercontinental ballistic missiles, nuclear-capable air-launched missiles, and strategic unmanned underwater vehicles, signaling its transformation into a military superpower. The parade highlighted China's commitment to modernizing the People’s Liberation Army, with military spending estimated to be significantly higher than official figures, raising concerns about regional and global security. President Xi Jinping's rhetoric emphasized military expansion and the goal of Taiwan unification, contrasting with a decade prior when peace was more frequently mentioned, which Taiwanese officials interpreted as psychological warfare aimed at undermining confidence in the U.S. and Taiwan's defense. Despite the impressive display, some experts and analysts argue the parade exposed vulnerabilities of the Chinese regime, pointing out the lack of combat experience since 1979 and the heavy reliance on propaganda and historical revisionism to bolster domestic legitimacy. The United States, under President Trump, highlighted the American military's pivotal role in defeating Imperial Japan, countering Beijing's narrative and signaling continued vigilance against China's growing military ambitions. International observers noted the event also served as a message to Western countries about China's strategic nuclear and missile defense capabilities.