Nuclear triad and ‘robot wolves’: parade shows off array of Chinese weapons

DF-61 intercontinental ballistic missiles, part of China’s nuclear triad, during the military parade in Beijng. Photograph: Getty Images

It was hardly a subtle attempt to project power. China showed off air-, sea- and land-launched nuclear weapons in its parade on Wednesday, a triad intended to demonstrate that Beijing’s long-term aspiration is to match US military might.

Also on display were large underwater torpedo-like drones, intended to threaten western warships, as well as anti-drone lasers and four-legged “robot wolves”, all designed to be noticed, regardless of their actual military effectiveness.