Story perspectives

China's Grand Military Parade to Showcase Power in 2025

9/2/2025

Center

Xi Showcases Military

China will hold its largest military parade on September 2, 2025, in Beijing, commemorating Japan's WWII surrender.
President Xi Jinping will display advanced military technology, including hypersonic missiles and drones, to 26 foreign leaders.
The $5 billion event aims to assert China's military strength amid escalating tensions with the U.S. and allies.
Security measures have increased, causing significant disruptions in Beijing as the parade date approaches.
This is China's first military parade since 2019, highlighting Xi's focus on national pride during economic challenges.

Right

Taiwan Denounces China's Narrative

Taiwan condemned China's military parade as a "deliberate distortion of history," disputing its claims about WWII contributions.
Former Australian premiers' participation raises concerns about endorsing Chinese narratives.
Analysts note Xi Jinping's efforts to alter historical views on Sino-American relations during WWII.
Taiwan's defense buildup reflects its commitment to democracy amid perceived threats from Beijing.
The $5 billion parade cost is criticized as a misallocation of resources given China's economic challenges.

History

Historical Context

The 70th anniversary of Japan's WWII surrender in 2015 prompted China to enhance its military capabilities under President Xi Jinping, investing $5 billion in advanced technology displays, including hypersonic missiles. This shift reflects ongoing tensions reminiscent of the Cold War, as China seeks to assert its influence amid U.S. rivalry, potentially straining Sino-American relations and impacting Taiwan's defense strategies.

1 of 3

Xi Showcases Military

China will hold its largest military parade on September 2, 2025, in Beijing, commemorating Japan's WWII surrender.
President Xi Jinping will display advanced military technology, including hypersonic missiles and drones, to 26 foreign leaders.
The $5 billion event aims to assert China's military strength amid escalating tensions with the U.S. and allies.
Security measures have increased, causing significant disruptions in Beijing as the parade date approaches.
This is China's first military parade since 2019, highlighting Xi's focus on national pride during economic challenges.

1 / 3