Nuclear missiles and ‘loyal wingmen’: 8 surprises from China’s military parade

ICBMs take centre stage, as do the PLA’s first air-based long-range missile and the debut of carrier-based fighter jets

Some of the biggest surprises came in ICBMs: the DF-61, DF-31BJ, DF-5C and submarine-launched ballistic missile JL-3. The DF-61 and DF-31BJ were not publicly known before the parade, and the DF-5C and JL-3 are considered the most advanced in their series.

One of the parade’s highlights was China showcasing three of its newest and most advanced ICBM forces that are designed to travel between continents, with a range exceeding 5,500 kilometres (3,400 miles).

China showcases new military hardware in massive Victory Day parade

The DF-61 was presented as a nuclear-capable missile and is thought to be an upgrade of the DF-41, now known as China’s most advanced ICBM.