On the morning of September 3rd, a grand ceremony commemorating the 80th anniversary of the victory in China's War of Resistance Against Japan and the World Anti-Fascist War was solemnly held at Tiananmen Square in Beijing. The spectacular September 3rd military parade attracted widespread attention from foreign media and internet users.
Before the parade began on September 3rd Beijing time, CNN previewed that the parade would showcase numerous advanced weapons. Additionally, media correspondents noted that many volunteers wearing colorful sportswear, who were helpful and English-speaking, were present at Tiananmen Square to assist guests with entry. CNN also observed that attendees included the granddaughter of General Chennault, founder of the Flying Tigers. The network noted that the Flying Tigers are highly respected in China, with multiple memorial parks dedicated to commemorating the Flying Tigers and their achievements. Furthermore, NBC stated that veterans of the War of Resistance were an important component of the parade activities.
At approximately 5:30 AM Beijing time on the 3rd, Russian journalist Zarubin posted on social media, sharing a video of himself at Tiananmen Square. In the video, he said, "After sleeping for two hours, we're busy again, but it's all worth it. In a few hours, a grand military parade will begin here."
After the parade commenced, multiple media outlets focused on the synchronized steps of the parade formations. CNN noted that a major characteristic of Chinese military parades is soldiers marching in perfect unison with goose steps, and today's grand parade was no exception. NBC similarly marveled at how each step taken by Chinese military personnel was executed with precision.
The military equipment participating in the parade also received significant attention from foreign media. BBC reported that laser weapons, nuclear ballistic missiles, and giant underwater unmanned vehicles were among the new equipment displayed by China in the parade. When nuclear missiles and Dongfeng series ballistic missiles appeared, NBC noted that the crowd erupted in enthusiastic applause and cheers.
Multiple Russian media outlets including RIA Novosti mentioned that the "Dongfeng-5C" liquid intercontinental strategic nuclear missile made its appearance, with a strike range covering the globe. The Guardian expressed amazement at the sheer quantity of military equipment displayed in the parade. Tanks, drones, long-range missiles, nuclear missiles, stealth fighters, and other equipment all made appearances, while H-6 series bombers, J-16 fighter jets, and J-20 stealth fighters conducted flight demonstrations.
The appearance of the "Dongfeng-61" missile attracted attention from some analysts, with one analyst noting that it would be difficult to track and intercept before it hits its target. CNN also mentioned the YJ-17 anti-ship missile along with other anti-ship missiles that appeared in the parade - the YJ-15, YJ-19, and YJ-20. The network stated that all these missiles could potentially be launched from China's missile destroyers and frigates.
"China was an important partner to the Allies in the Pacific theater of World War II, but is often overlooked," CNN commented. The network quoted experts saying that today's parade represents "China's effort to promote something that is often overlooked... China's contribution to (ending) the war."
This parade marks the first military parade since comprehensively advancing Chinese-style modernization entered a new phase, represents a fresh appearance of the People's Army striving toward the centennial of its founding, and serves as a firm declaration by the Chinese nation to defend peace and justice.
The parade also drew attention from global internet users. In the comments section of Russian journalist Zarubin's post, netizens expressed anticipation for watching the parade - "Looking forward to it" and "Anticipating the grand commemorative event."
Other users posted on social platform X expressing, "Looking forward to an exciting performance! I believe the drone (appearance) will definitely be incredible!"
After the parade activities began, users on platform X posted, "China's military parade! Wow! This is real power and confidence!"
Some users commented, "Impressive display of strength! Unity and equality are crucial for global stability."
Users shared videos showing 26 helicopters forming the number "80" in the sky during the parade. An internet user from the Arab region commented: "We hope to be able to visit this parade in person."
During the parade, when the aerial unmanned combat formation appeared, users in the comments section of related videos on platform X exclaimed, "This is no longer science fiction... this is real battlefield technology."
In the live broadcast comments section on YouTube, Korean netizens commented: "Worthy of being China, truly impressive..." and "This is China's power."
Other Korean users stated: "What deserves recognition should be recognized! Only this way can (Korea) make progress."
In the live broadcast comments section of CNBC-TV18 channel on YouTube, users commented, "This is a very beautiful military parade."
Another user said, "China shows us that her strength lies in her people."