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China unveils advanced drone arsenal in Victory Day parade
China showcased an unprecedented array of advanced autonomous combat systems during its Victory Day military parade on September 3, 2025. Held at Beijing’s Tiananmen Square, the event marked the 80th anniversary of China’s victory in the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. The grand display highlighted the People’s Liberation Army’s (PLA) commitment to integrating artificial intelligence (AI) and autonomous systems into warfare.
Pioneering unmanned military systems
The parade featured three distinct formations of unmanned systems for land, sea, and air operations. According to reports by CGTN, the land-based systems included reconnaissance vehicles, assault units, mine-clearing equipment, and support systems capable of remote or autonomous navigation. These technologies demonstrated “flexible deployment” and seamless coordination with human forces in joint operations.
China’s unmanned naval capabilities drew significant attention with the debut of the AJX-002, an imposing 20-meter-long unmanned underwater vehicle (UUV) with potential nuclear capabilities, reminiscent of Russia’s Poseidon system. The maritime formation also showcased mine-laying systems and surface vessels designed for reconnaissance and surveillance missions.
The aerial component included the GJ-11 stealth attack drone, described as a “loyal wingman” capable of operating alongside piloted fighter jets. State media highlighted its ability to conduct undetectable strikes and coordinate autonomously in drone swarms, emphasizing China’s focus on advanced aerial warfare.
Technological advancements and strategic implications
The parade also featured innovative military technologies such as quadrupedal “robot wolves” mounted on vehicles, designed for reconnaissance, mine-clearing, and enemy detection across diverse terrains. These systems underscore China’s advancements in robotics for military applications.
Forbes reported that China’s integration of AI spans all military domains, enabling autonomous flight control, mission planning, sensor analysis, and self-defense. The parade also showcased anti-drone technologies, including AI-guided missile and cannon systems, high-energy lasers, and microwave weapons designed to counter enemy unmanned systems.
Diplomatic overtones and global power projection
The event served as a high-profile diplomatic platform, with President Xi Jinping flanked by Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, alongside representatives from over 20 nations. Analysts described this gathering as a demonstration of China’s growing influence among nations challenging the U.S.-led global order.
Military analysts highlighted the psychological warfare aspects of these autonomous systems. Experts noted that “relentless machines on the battlefield” can exert significant psychological pressure on adversaries, potentially reshaping combat dynamics. The demonstration also suggested that China’s coordinated human-machine combat systems have reached operational maturity, following successful PLA exercises and international maneuvers.
China’s comprehensive display of unmanned systems signals a paradigm shift toward “intelligent warfare,” where networked autonomous capabilities define the future of 21st-century military operations. The scale and timing of the parade reflect Beijing’s confidence in its technological advancements and its intent to challenge the military balance in the Asia-Pacific region.