China Unveils Next-Gen Naval Power: New Missiles and Drones Dominate 2025 Parade

Beijing, September 3, 2025 – China showcased its rapidly advancing military capabilities, particularly in naval warfare, during a grand parade commemorating the 80th anniversary of World War II’s end in the Pacific. The highly anticipated event in Beijing featured an array of cutting-edge weapon systems, from advanced missiles and drones to strategic naval aviation assets, underscoring the nation’s ambitious modernization drive.

A significant highlight was the unveiling of several new anti-ship missiles, including the supersonic ramjet-powered YJ-15, the hypersonic glider YJ-17, and the potentially scramjet-driven YJ-19, which observers speculate could be launched from submarines. The YJ-20, an aeroballistic missile previously seen on Type 055 destroyers, also made a prominent appearance, signaling a multi-layered threat to naval targets.

Naval air defense received a boost with new variants like the HHQ-9C and HQ-16C, alongside the established HQ-10 system. Of particular interest was the LY-1 laser-based directed energy weapon, making its first detailed public appearance, suggesting an advanced state of evaluation for close-range air defense.

The parade also put a strong emphasis on unmanned systems, displaying a range of naval drones. These included the HSU100 large surveillance UUV, an unnamed surface drone for mine clearing, and the AJX002, a large UUV designed for mining operations. In naval aviation, a new carrier-borne variant of the GJ-11/21 combat drone, featuring folding wings, was showcased, alongside an unnamed helicopter drone suitable for shipborne operations.

Strategic capabilities were not overlooked, with the YJ-18C land-attack cruise missile and the operational JL-3 nuclear-tipped submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM) making an appearance. The YJ-21 air-launched ballistic missile also featured, highlighting China’s expanding long-range strike options.

The aerial display marked the official flying debut of the J-35 fighter and the KJ-600 airborne early warning and control (AEWC) aircraft, indicating significant progress in China’s carrier-based air wing development. Overall, the 2025 parade underscored China’s commitment to developing a formidable blue-water navy capable of deterring potential adversaries and projecting power.

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