The People's Liberation Army (PLA) is preparing for one of its most ambitious military parades, set to take place on Wednesday, September 3, to mark the 80th anniversary of victory in World War II. This event is expected to highlight how the PLA is integrating advanced unmanned systems drones, robotic vehicles, and Al-driven technologies - into its traditional military formations.
A Shift Toward Real-Combat Groupings
Officials say the parade formations will be arranged to reflect real-combat joint groupings, signaling China's emphasis on cross-system and multi-domain readiness. Unlike earlier years, the PLA now aims to demonstrate not just equipment, but also how manned and unmanned forces can operate together.
Evolution of Drone Warfare
Sixteen years after drones first appeared in a Chinese military parade, this year's event could showcase a wider variety of unmanned systems. Analysts believe some will be completely new models, possibly including stealth UCAVs (unmanned combat aerial vehicles) with Al-assisted capabilities.
Leaked rehearsal images have already sparked speculation. Observers spotted designs resembling the FH-97 "loyal wingman" drone, plus at least five previously unseen tailless stealth drones, ranging from 9 to 12 meters in length. These designs are being compared to the US Air Force's Next-Generation Air Dominance program, under which drones fly alongside manned aircraft.
Among the most anticipated is the GJ-11 "Sharp Sword", already shown in 2019. Evidence suggests that China has since developed a naval variant (GJ-11J) capable of launching from carriers like the Type 076 amphibious assault ship Sichuan, positioning China ahead of the US Navy in drone-carrier operations.
Rise of Robotic Ground Forces
Beyond aerial drones, quadruped unmanned ground vehicles (Q-UGVs) - sometimes referred to as "robot wolves" are also expected. Recent PLA footage revealed these 68kg robotic platforms carrying assault rifles, ammunition, and performing reconnaissance tasks. During mountain drills near the Russian border, they successfully conducted 100-meter precision strikes, marking an upgrade from earlier "robot dogs" used in joint exercises abroad.
Integration Over Individual Systems
Military experts emphasize that the parade's significance lies not in single weapons but in their integration into a networked system. Former PLA instructor Song Zhongping said:
"Unmanned systems extend battlefield reach, reconnaissance, and strike options. They complement manned assets and will gradually take over more dangerous tasks."
This reflects China's transition from traditional weapons to a man-machine integrated battlefield, where drones and robotic systems fill critical roles once reserved for soldiers.
Static Displays vs. Live Maneuvers
Despite speculation about drones flying or robotic beasts moving during the parade, most experts expect static displays for safety reasons. Song stressed that ensuring reliability and security during the parade is paramount, and that the mere presence of such advanced systems will send a powerful deterrent signal.
Projection of Power and Technology
Analysts argue that China often uses parades to blur the line between ambition and operational reality. Even if some technologies are not yet fully battle-tested, showcasing them boosts confidence at home and signals strength abroad.
As Raska, a defense analyst, put it:
"Any loyal-wingman drone flyover would demonstrate Beijing's confidence in its technological maturity even if those systems are not yet fully deployed."
In short, the 2025 PLA parade will not just be about tanks and missiles, but about how advanced drones, robotic beasts, and Al systems are reshaping China's military strategy, blending futuristic warfare with traditional power projection.
