China is set to hold its largest military parade on Victory Day, Wednesday, September 3. The event will both honor Japan’s surrender in World War II and underline China’s growing military might.

More than two dozen world leaders are expected to attend the grand display. China will showcase some of its latest and most sophisticated weapons, after weeks of rehearsals in Beijing under strict security.

World leaders gather for symbolic show

For the first time, Chinese President Xi Jinping, Russian President Vladimir Putin, and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un will appear together in public. Western analysts have described this moment as an “Axis of Upheaval.”

Putin and Kim signed a defense pact last year, while China continues to serve as North Korea’s only formal ally and an important partner for Russia. Their joint presence is expected to draw global attention.

The gathering will also include Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and Myanmar’s military ruler Min Aung Hlaing. In total, 26 foreign leaders will attend, along with around 50,000 spectators.

Victory Day and its significance

Victory Day marks the surrender of Imperial Japan in 1945, which ended World War II in Asia. China formally declared September 3 as Victory Day in 2014. This year carries special importance as it is the 80th anniversary of Japan’s defeat.

The event will be Xi Jinping’s third military parade since he became president in 2012.

Parade highlights and Xi’s speech

The 70-minute ceremony will feature a wide range of modern weapons. Hypersonic systems, nuclear-capable missiles, fighter jets, and underwater drones are expected to be on display.

Xi Jinping is also scheduled to deliver a keynote speech, likely emphasizing both China’s role in history and its vision for future global security.