Part 7/18:
While these displays are undeniably impressive, experts caution against conflating parade theatrics with actual combat readiness. Military hardware rolled out on display may not have been tested in live combat, especially weapons like directed energy systems and autonomous drones. The sophistication of a weapon system in a parade does not automatically translate into operational capability.
Nonetheless, the parade’s overarching message is strategic: China is closing the gap with the US military and, in some domains, may be trying to surpass it. This is likely driven by long-term efforts to emulate and even steal technological innovations from the US and its allies, bolstering Beijing’s position in future conflicts.