China is ready to show off a large unmanned surface ship at a military parade

On the eve of a large-scale military parade in Beijing, photos have emerged of a large unmanned surface ship (BNK) being transported around the city on a conveyor. This vessel is expected to be one of the most impressive novelties of the show and may turn out to be one of the largest unmanned ships ever publicly demonstrated by China.

The size of the vessel indicates that it belongs to the class of medium—sized or large unmanned platforms designed not just for reconnaissance or strike operations, but for performing a wide range of tasks, from long-term patrols to monitoring vast maritime areas. Unlike the small drone boats that China already uses for tactical purposes, this ship is capable of operating autonomously for a long time and at considerable distances from the base.

The emergence of such technology underscores China's strategic desire to strengthen its control over disputed territories, especially in the South China Sea. Beijing has territorial disputes with the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei and other countries there. Unmanned patrol ships can strengthen their presence in these waters without risking the crew, reduce operating costs, and can be used for both monitoring and demonstration of force.

In addition, such vessels can be equipped with sensors, electronic intelligence systems, communications equipment, and even weapons, making them versatile platforms in modern naval strategy.

The demonstration of a large BNC at the parade is not just a technology demonstration, but a signal of China's readiness to move to a new level of autonomous and networked maritime defense.

China for the first time showed a large-sized unmanned underwater vehicle before the Victory Day parade over Japan

In preparation for the military parade in Beijing dedicated to the 80th anniversary of the victory over Japan in World War II, China for the first time publicly demonstrated a large-scale unmanned underwater vehicle (UAV). His appearance caused a wide response among military experts and analysts.

The device, whose images appeared in Chinese state media and satellite images, is notable for its significant size, which indicates its strategic purpose. Experts suggest that this underwater drone may be part of China's new program to create an underwater strategic deterrent weapon.

Special attention is drawn to the similarity of the concept with the Russian nuclear-powered unmanned underwater vehicle Poseidon. By analogy, the Chinese UAV is probably designed to perform ultra-long-range missions, including delivering a powerful nuclear warhead to the enemy's coast or defeating aircraft carrier groups. Such vehicles are capable of moving at great depth, at high speed, and over vast distances, making them extremely difficult to detect and intercept.

Although official data on the characteristics of the device is not yet available, its demonstration against the background of a large-scale parade signals China's serious ambitions in the development of autonomous underwater weapons. This could be an important element in modernizing the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) Navy and strengthening its strategic capabilities in the Pacific Ocean.

Chinese tigers in a Russian port: a submarine and destroyers have arrived in Vladivostok

 

Vladivostok, the traditional fortress of the Russian Pacific Fleet, has become home to Chinese warships for several days. A Chinese naval group has arrived at the port, which will take part in the joint Russian-Chinese exercises "Maritime Interaction-2025", scheduled until August 5.

This group is an impressive showcase of Chinese naval power. It consists of:

* A Kilo—class multipurpose submarine, quiet and dangerous submarines known for their stealth.

* The Shaoxing and Urumqi Type 052D missile destroyers are modern ships with powerful anti—aircraft and anti-ship artillery.

* A type 903A supply vessel is a "fleet tanker" that provides long trips.

* The submarine rescue vessel is a specialized ship for emergency operations.

It is the arrival of the Chinese submarine that attracts particular attention. This is the first time that a Chinese submarine has entered a Russian port as part of such joint maneuvers. This step symbolizes an unprecedented level of trust and coordination between the Chinese Navy and the Russian Federation.

Such exercises are taking place against the backdrop of growing tensions in the Asia-Pacific region, where both the Chinese and Russian military presence is increasing. The arrival of a powerful Chinese group in Vladivostok is not just a training exercise, but a clear signal of the strategic rapprochement between the two countries at sea.

Chinese J-35 stealth fighter goes to sea: aircraft carrier tests coming soon

 J-35

China is actively preparing for combat duty its new fifth—generation fighter, the J-35, which is already undergoing limited mass production. This is not just another military aircraft — it is a full-fledged carrier-based stealth fighter designed to be based on aircraft carriers. And, apparently, there is very little left before full-fledged admission to the Chinese Navy.

What is the J-35?

It is an inconspicuous fighter with a streamlined body, modern electronic warfare systems and powerful weapons. It is compact in size — about 17.3 meters in length and 11.5 meters in wingspan. That is, he is maneuverable, fast and at the same time a serious fighter.

Its maximum speed is up to Mach 2 (about 2200 km / h), which is higher than that of the American F-35 (1.6 Mach). The combat range is about 1200-1300 km without outboard tanks, and with them — up to 2100 km.

Armament: What can it carry?

The J-35 can carry up to 8 tons of payload.:

- 6 suspension points inside — to keep it unobtrusive;

- 6 more are outside if more weapons are needed.

In his arsenal:

- PL-10 melee missiles,

- PL-12 medium-range missiles,

- anti-ship and anti-radar missiles.

That is, it is capable of destroying both air, land and sea targets.

How is the J-35 better than others?

- Two engines, rather than one, as in the F-35 — this gives better maneuverability and safety margin.

- More combat load, especially in the inner compartments.

- The speed is higher than that of the F-35.

- The wings are folded, which means it is convenient to place on the deck of an aircraft carrier.

- The ability to take off from a catapult is an important condition for naval aviation.

The J-35 is currently being prepared for testing on the Liaoning aircraft carrier. If everything goes well, it will be officially adopted and used in real combat missions.

This is a step forward for the Chinese navy: aircraft carriers will receive serious air support, and China will be able to assert itself more strongly in the Asia-Pacific region.

The J-35 is not just a copy of the F-35. It is a full-fledged competitor that can give China an advantage in maritime operations. It will be interesting to follow his tests on an aircraft carrier.

Turkey supplied armored vehicles to the Syrian army: Otokar Cobra and Cadillac Gage Commando spotted in Aleppo

At the recent graduation ceremony of the 76th Division of the Syrian Army in Aleppo, new Turkish-made armored vehicles were presented — wheeled armored vehicles Otokar Cobra and Cadillac Gage Commando. This event aroused great interest among military analysts, since previously such vehicles were used mainly as part of the Turkish army or were transferred to groups supported by Ankara on Syrian territory.

The Otokar Cobra armored vehicle, developed by the Turkish company Otokar, is a multifunctional vehicle designed to transport personnel and ensure their safety in high-risk conditions. The machine has a high degree of protection against mines and improvised explosive devices, which makes it effective in urban and mining operations. Her appearance in the ranks of the Syrian government army may indicate the beginning of a new stage of cooperation between Turkey and Damascus, despite the historically tense relations between the countries.

In addition, amphibious vehicles **Cadillac Gage Commando** with a 4x4 wheel formula were seen. These vehicles are usually used for internal security, riot control, and patrol tasks. Their use in Syria may be related to the need to strengthen measures to stabilize the situation in regions where there is a risk of renewed local conflicts.

It is worth noting that Turkey has repeatedly sent military equipment to various anti-government groups in Syria, especially in the Idleb province area of responsibility, where well-armed formations supported by Ankara were located. However, the fact that modern armored vehicles are being supplied directly to the regular Syrian army may indicate a restructuring of Turkey's foreign policy aimed at normalizing relations with the regime of Bashar al-Assad.

Some experts suggest that this may be part of a broader strategy to strengthen regional stability and reduce tensions in northern Syria. It is also possible that Turkey is seeking to participate in the process of rebuilding the country after years of war, using military-technical cooperation as an instrument of influence.

The Chinese aircraft carrier Shandong entered the port of Hong Kong, demonstrating strength and unity

On July 3, 2025, China's first domestically built aircraft carrier, the Shandong, arrived in Hong Kong, just days after the city celebrated the 28th anniversary of reunification with China. This event became an important symbol of the country's national pride and military might, and also demonstrated the strengthening of ties between the People's Liberation Army of China (PLA) and the residents of the special administrative region.

The aircraft carrier Shandong, which is over 300 meters long, was officially commissioned in 2019. She became the second aircraft carrier in the PLA Navy after the upgraded Liaoning aircraft carrier, purchased from Ukraine and refitted in China. However, unlike Liaoning, Shandong was fully developed and built in the shipyards of China, which indicates the significant success of the Chinese defense industry.

The visit to Hong Kong by a delegation led by the aircraft carrier Shandong is part of a five-day visit that also includes the destroyer Zhanjiang and the frigate Yuncheng. It is expected that open events will be organized during the visit, including guided tours for local residents and cultural exchanges between naval units and the civilian population. Such visits are conducted regularly and serve not only to build trust between the military and society, but also to demonstrate stability and control by the central government in Beijing.

Under the leadership of President Xi Jinping, China is actively developing its naval forces, seeking to strengthen its influence in the South China Sea and the Indo-Pacific region. The Navy's modernization program includes the construction of new ships, the development of aircraft carrier groups and the expansion of infrastructure on artificial islands. This process has caused concern among neighboring countries such as Japan, the Philippines, Vietnam and India, which view the growing power of the Chinese Navy as a potential threat to their security.

Shandong's arrival in Hong Kong also has deep political significance. After several years of tension related to the anti-government protests of 2019-2020, such demonstrations of force and at the same time openness to dialogue can help restore trust between the center and the semi-autonomous region. The Chinese authorities emphasize that Hong Kong remains a strategically important financial and logistical hub where military and civilian structures must work together in the interests of national unity.

The visit of the aircraft carrier Shandong was the first in recent years and marks the resumption of the tradition when large warships visit Hong Kong in order to establish contacts and raise public awareness about the achievements of the Chinese navy. Large-scale events planned in the coming days are expected by thousands of visitors who want to see with their own eyes one of the most modern examples of Chinese naval equipment.

The U.S. Navy will begin deploying Tomahawk anti-ship missiles on destroyers by the end of September

Tomahawk missile launch from the ship

By the end of September 2025, the US Navy plans to begin deploying an anti-ship version of the Tomahawk cruise missile on its destroyers. According to the head of the readiness service, this event will be a turning point in the confrontation with the numerically superior Chinese fleet. The new version of the missile will significantly enhance the capabilities of the US Navy in the fight against maritime threats, ensuring more effective destruction of enemy ships at long distances.

The deployment of anti-ship Tomahawks on destroyers will increase the strategic flexibility and strike potential of the American fleet, which is especially important in the context of China's growing naval activity in the Pacific region. This upgrade is part of a broader program to upgrade and strengthen the armament of the U.S. Navy.

Chinese Navy deploys new Liaowan-1 space tracking ship

 Liaovan-1

The Chinese Navy has deployed its new next—generation space tracking ship, Liaowang-1. This ship marks a significant leap in the projection of China's maritime power and space surveillance capabilities. 

The main characteristics of Liaovan-1

- Purpose: To monitor space objects, including satellites, rockets and missile tests, as well as to support Chinese military satellites such as the Beidou Navigation System.

- Radar systems: The ship is equipped with advanced radars and high-gain antennas, designed with an emphasis on functionality.

- Mobility: Liaowan-1 can operate in international waters, allowing China to expand its strategic flexibility.

Liaowan-1 is the successor to the Yuan Wang class ships, which have been in service since 1977. This ship marks the beginning of a new era in China's strategy to integrate naval operations with space military support. 

The Chinese aircraft carrier Fujian is undergoing sea trials: images from the sky

 

The image from the sky shows the Chinese aircraft carrier Fujian practicing maneuvers.

Commercial satellite images appear to show the vessel during its seventh sea trials, which are known to be taking place in the Bohai Sea.

The images, which were reportedly taken on Friday and Saturday over the Bohai Bay in northeastern China, show that the focus of the tests was on the steering and maneuverability of the Fujian.