China's military today unveiled several new strategic weapons in its growing arsenal including a carrier-based long-range fighter jet, a medium-long-range bomber and an anti-ship ballistic missile.
The J-15 carrier-based long-range fighter jet was one of the highlights of the unprecedented military parade held at the iconic Tiananmen Square here to mark the 70th anniversary of China's victory over Japan in World War II.
Nicknamed "Flying Shark," J-15 is China's first generation long-range, multi-purpose carrier-borne fighter jet, with the capability to carry various tasks.
In November, 2012, China's first aircraft carrier, the Liaoning, conducted successful take-off and landing tests of J-15 fighters, the main strike force of China's carrier group.
The military also displayed the Dongfeng-5B or 'East Wind 5' intercontinental strategic nuclear missiles, which has an estimated range of 12,000 to 15,000 kilometers.
The Dongfeng-21D anti-ship ballistic missile touted as a "carrier killer" was paraded for the first time. Some military experts say the missile could alter the balance of power with the US in the Pacific Ocean.
The military also unveiled the latest model of China's airborne early warning and control aircraft Kongjing-500, Y-8 command and communication aircraft and J-10 fighters.
Kongjing-500 is a medium-sized early warning and control aircraft, used for surveillance, guidance and other missions.
Another highlight of the air force show is the debut of the home-grown H-6K bomber. It is mainly used for conducting medium-long-range attack and destroying targets beyond defense zone.
The parade also included a maritime patrol aircraft echelon consisting of Kongjing-200H AEWC aircraft, JH-7A fighter-bombers and Y-8 aircraft.
Dozens of J-11B and J-10A fighters were also part of the parade that lasted over 90 minutes.
A total of 12,000 Chinese troops took part in the parade, along with 500 pieces of equipment. 84 per cent of the weapons on show have been displayed in public for the first time, the official Xinhua news agency reported.
Chinese military officers said that the new armaments, also including modern tanks, missile-launchers and drones, represent the "new development, new achievements and new images of the building of the Chinese armed forces."
People's Liberation Army (PLA) senior commander Li Guangbin claimed that many of the weaponry shown for the first time publicly were top notch in the world.
National Defense University professor Qiao Liang said that the display of armaments has shown China's military achievements as well as the PLA's determination and ability to defend the country's sovereignty and territory.
The last major military parade was held in 2009 to mark the 60th anniversary of China's founding, with 151 aircraft of 14 types on display. Since its founding, China has staged 14 military parades marking its national day.
