Beijing’s military parade not focused on Taiwan, but its message will be
China’s September display marking 80th anniversary of end of WWII will be a statement, as well as a show, observers say
The event, to be held on September 3, will mark the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II. It will feature the latest and most advanced weapons of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA), and a speech by Chinese President Xi Jinping that is expected to hint at China’s foreign policy and the future direction of the country’s military.
While Taiwan will not be the theme of the event, Beijing has already started telegraphing messages towards the self-ruled island.
Military preparations
The PLA is expected to showcase advanced weapons, including its latest fifth-generation fighter jet, intercontinental ballistic missiles and cutting-edge uncrewed equipment, much of which was commissioned with the Taiwan conflict scenario in mind.
The PLA Navy’s newest carrier-based aircraft may also make an appearance.
Last week, state media reported that China might unveil some new models of carrier-based fighter jets. Chinese aircraft carriers were deployed near Taiwan recently, launching fighter jets towards the east coast of Taiwan.
Military commentator Wei Dongxu told state broadcaster CCTV that carrier-based aircraft meant the aircraft carriers were “combat-ready”. He added that a flyover at the parade could bring “more surprises”, a hint that the current model J-15T and even J-35 fighter jets, which have been modified to accommodate catapult take-offs, might put in an appearance.