China is set to display a variety of new weapons during a large military parade on Wednesday, signalling its growing military strength and challenging US dominance.

Military experts have been analysing social media images and videos from recent rehearsals, which revealed advanced weaponry including anti-ship missiles, state-of-the-art underwater drones, and anti-missile systems that are expected to pass in front of Chinese President Xi Jinping, Russian President Vladimir Putin, and other world leaders.

While the specific list of hardware remains undisclosed, military enthusiasts have noted the presence of significant new systems, including what is rumoured to be a massive laser weapon. The Chinese military has confirmed that all equipment showcased is domestically produced and “in active duty.”

New anti-ship missiles

Among the highlights are four new anti-ship missiles—YJ-15, YJ-17, YJ-19, and YJ-20 — capable of being launched from ships or aircraft.

These missiles are designed to inflict severe damage on large vessels, with the YJ-17, YJ-19, and YJ-20 potentially being hypersonic, flying at speeds exceeding five times the speed of sound.

Military commentator Song Zhongping emphasised the need for China to develop robust anti-ship and anti-aircraft capabilities amid ongoing tensions in the Taiwan Strait and the South China Sea.

Cutting-edge underwater drones

Rehearsals also showcased two new large torpedo-shaped unmanned underwater vehicles. The first, identified as “AJX002,” measures 18 to 20 meters (59-66 feet) in length, while the second remains concealed under a tarpaulin.

Although still trailing the US in surface naval power, China boasts the world’s largest program for extra-large uncrewed underwater vehicles, with at least five types currently operational.

Advanced anti-missile capabilities

The parade is expected to feature the HQ-29 anti-missile system, which some analysts describe as a “satellite hunter” capable of intercepting missiles at altitudes of 500 kilometres and targeting low-orbit satellites.

Mounted on a wheeled vehicle, it includes two missile containers approximately 1.5 meters in diameter, potentially making it one of the most powerful interception systems globally.

Possible laser defence system

A large camouflage-covered vehicle, reportedly a defence system capable of shooting down missiles and drones using a powerful laser, has also garnered attention.

The Chinese military-linked account “Zhao DaShuai” claims it to be the “most powerful laser air defence system in the world.”

New nuclear weapons and armoured vehicles

The parade is expected to prominently feature intercontinental ballistic missiles capable of carrying nuclear warheads.

Analyst Song Zhongping noted that China will showcase a new generation of nuclear weapons, which could help balance military power between China and the US.

New armoured vehicles, including a next-generation tank smaller than the Type 99A main battle tank, have been spotted in recent days.

If the showcased equipment is indeed domestically produced and operational, it would signify a significant upgrade for China’s armed forces compared to other advanced militaries worldwide, according to James Char, a military professor at Nanyang Technological University.

However, he cautioned that the actual capabilities of these weapons may not be fully assessed in a ceremonial setting.