How China’s military surged ahead in tech by firing up competition among suppliers
State firms are still the backbone of weapons supplies, private companies are playing a bigger role
The futuristic drones, intercontinental missiles and laser and microwave systems that rolled through central Beijing on Wednesday reflect not only the intensity of China’s military modernisation drive but also advances in the research and manufacturing ecosystem that has sprung up to develop it.
At least five nuclear-capable missile types made their debut during the military parade – three can reportedly reach the continental United States; one is a submarine-launched ballistic missile; and the fifth is a long-range air-launched ballistic missile.
Of all the new drones on show on Wednesday, only one, an upgraded GJ-11, could be definitively identified by military enthusiasts, indicating the variety of configurations and fresh technology being developed.
The drone industry has been awash with experimentation and competition in recent years, with Chinese state-owned and private companies developing various types of UAVs.