China displays unmanned arsenal, anti-drone tech

China showcased significant additions to its arsenal, including a range of unmanned weapons on land, sea and air, cutting-edge anti-swarm drone systems, laser weapons and hypersonics, at a military parade marking 80 years of the end of WWII.

Several new systems that have been added by the PLA in the past five years were displayed and while the show of power seemed more directed towards the US with long-range nuclear capable missiles and upgraded aircraft carrier killer weapon systems, the new technology added will be seen with interest in India too, which got a taste of Chinese weaponry during the short conflict with Pakistan in June.

"Only time will tell, however, at least from the kind of weapons China has chosen to display at the military parade, it is becoming clearer that the PLA is adapting to newer warfare techniques-or at least wants the world to believe that," said China watcher Suyash Desai.


He added that China seems to have learnt from recent conflicts around the world, including Indian strikes on Pakistan, and is modifying its approach to warfare and strategy.

Of particular interest would be the unmanned systems displayed by China, some for the first time. This included a new large attack drone, manned-unmanned teaming and shipborne, stealth helicopter drones. An unmanned 'wingman' was showcased that can team up with a fighter jet and can be used for riskier missions. India too had a similar project in the works.

Besides several types of drones and combat aircraft, Beijing also displayed a new counter swarm drone system that incorporates laser weapons and micro missiles.