Parades Comparison

China’s media predicts that the lineup of the 60th anniversary parade in Beijing on October 1 to celebrate the founding of the nation will surpass all previous shows of strength.

The parade will “demonstrate the positive image of China as a country seeking peaceful development,” Senior Colonel Guo Zhigang, a deputy commander of the event’s training camp, said.

The People’s Liberation Army says equipment to be seen during the parade is developed and made by China and represents the latest military technology.

Advanced weapons tipped to be seen on parade include the Type 99 tanks, VN1 armored personal carriers, sea-skimming YJ series anti-ship cruise missiles, HQ series ship-to-air missiles, the J-11 fighter and HY-6 aerial refueler.

Commander of the Beijing Military Region, Fang Fenghui, outlined some of the parade highlights to local media. All troops will wear the latest military uniforms, and pilots will fly the J-10 and J-7 fighter planes in formation.

The first 16 women to become air force pilots, aged between 21 to 24, will make their debut flights.

About 1,000 players selected from the military bands nationwide, the largest team since 1949, will provide musical accompaniment during the parade.

The 400-strong women’s militia team will be the last among the marching troops.

Two documentaries about the 60th anniversary parade and celebrations will be on sale to the public later this year.