Advertisement
China’s military parade adds up to the power of maths: Shing-Tung Yau
Global leadership hinges on ‘strong foundation in basic sciences’ with top talent at ‘forefront of technology’, professor says
Reading Time:3 minutes
Why you can trust SCMP
8
Mathematics plays a big role in developing advanced weapons, top mathematician Shing-Tung Yau said in an interview with a Chengdu-based media outlet after watching China’s military parade in Tiananmen Square on Wednesday.
“The development of cutting-edge weapons relies heavily on foundational disciplines such as mathematics and physics. Without original innovations and deep accumulation in basic sciences, a country risks being constrained by others in terms of technologies,” Yau told Cover News.
“The form of warfare is undergoing profound changes, with the role of intelligent equipment such as drones becoming increasingly prominent.”
Advertisement
Beijing’s military parade on Wednesday marking the 80th anniversary of China’s victory over Japan in World War II showcased the country’s latest arsenal of AI-powered uncrewed vehicles, laser weapons and information warfare equipment.
05:50
China showcases new military hardware in massive Victory Day parade
China showcases new military hardware in massive Victory Day parade
As well as serving and former top officials and generals, two dozen world leaders attended alongside Chinese President Xi Jinping, including Russian President Vladimir Putin, North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.
Advertisement
Advertisement
Select Voice
Choose your listening speed
Get through articles 2x faster
1.25x
250 WPM
Slow
Average
Fast
1.25x