China's V-Day parade on September 3 came as a shock to many die-hard military fans, as a streak of new, sci-fi-looking weapons were on display with almost no details provided. CGTN's "China's New Sword" is a series of reports that explain these weapons using publicly available information that has not yet been thoroughly introduced to the English-language internet.

While the world's attention has often been on China's naval growth and air force upgrades, this parade revealed something much more significant: a new generation of strategic weapons built for maximum deterrence. Many of the systems shown were making their public debut.

Dawn of hypersonic age

Leading the charge were China's hypersonic missiles, capable of traveling at least five times the speed of sound. These are not just faster missiles; they signify a fundamental shift in how missiles can bypass existing defense systems.

The DF-17 missile is easily recognizable by its distinctive, flattened cone-shaped warhead, a design that greatly improves its maneuverability and ability to breach missile defenses.

An upgraded version of the DF-26, the DF-26D features an integrated launch vehicle and canister launch technology, making it more adaptable to complex battlefield environments. It is a key part of China's "killer weapon" arsenal.

The YJ-17, YJ-19, YJ-20, and YJ-21, displayed both in joint formations and as part of an anti-ship missile system, highlight China's focus on building a multi-layered hypersonic capability that can be launched from land, sea, and air.

The Changjian-1000 was also introduced as China's first hypersonic cruise missile. With its high maneuverability and instant launch ability, it is built for precision strikes, also known as surgical strikes.

Triad of nuclear power

While hypersonic technology is seen as the future, the parade also highlighted the lasting strength of China's nuclear arsenal. For the first time, a complete nuclear triad – land, sea, and air-based – was showcased publicly.

Land-based: The DF-5C liquid-fueled intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) was the centerpiece. Its large frame was carried in three different sections, with its conical warhead clearly visible. It stands as a key part of China's deterrence strategy due to its global strike capability. The parade also showcased the new DF-61 and DF-31BJ land-based ICBMs.

Sea-based: The JL-3 (Julang or "Tidal Wave") submarine-launched ICBM is presented as the upgraded naval component. This missile gives China the capability to launch a second-strike from a hidden location.

Air-based: The JL-1 (Jinglei or "Thunderclap") air-launched long-range missile completed the triad, demonstrating China's ability to deliver a nuclear payload from the air.

The single-sided cockpit design of the missile transporters also emphasized a new design philosophy centered on integration and intelligence.

This display of nuclear capabilities was presented not as a threat, but as a "strategic trump card" to protect national sovereignty and keep the peace.