Key Points and Summary – China is preparing to showcase its most advanced fighter jets, including the J-16, J-20, and J-35, in “real-war scenario” flight formations at its upcoming Victory Day parade on September 3.
-This massive aerial display over Beijing is more than just a historical commemoration; it is a deliberate and powerful signal of the PLA’s rapidly modernizing airpower.
-By simulating complex combat operations with visible payloads, China is sending a clear message of deterrence to its rivals amid soaring tensions over Taiwan and the South China Sea, underlining its growing military might.
China to Showcase J-20 and J-35 ‘Real-War Scenario’ Fighter Formations
The People’s Liberation Army (PLA) will soon carry out its yearly Victory Day parade in Beijing. The landmark occasion, on September 3rd, will mark 80 years since the surrender of Japan in 1945.
Chinese state media alleges that fighter jets from the air force, navy, and army will join flight demonstrations in a bid to showcase the PLA’s modern warfare capacities.
‘Real War’ Scenarios Staged
Among the aircraft set to participate are the J-16, the stealthy J-20, and the carrier-capable J-35—types that symbolize China’s rapid advances in aviation technology.
The formations will be staged to simulate “real-war scenarios,” with visible payloads and an emphasis on the coordination of early warning, command, and precision strike systems across the services.
State news agency Xinhua described the display as evidence of the “confidence and strength of the people’s military to deter strong enemies and secure victory in the skies.”
Notably, many of the jets will be making their first appearance in such a parade. The inclusion of recently developed combat aircraft underscores China’s intention to showcase not only its legacy platforms but also its most modern and potentially export-ready designs.
Beijing has been working tirelessly to ramp up fifth-generation fighters in a bid to tip the power balance in the Indo-Pacific.
Practices have already been spotted over the capital city, with locals posting images of J-20 and J-35 formations above Tiananmen Square, clearly permitted by China’s tightly censored social media.
These flagrant displays are not just for domestic viewing, but a signal to the outside world that China is expanding- fast.
Tensions Soar Over Taiwan and South China Sea
September 3 is the annual commemoration of China’s role in defeating the Japanese Empire during the Second World War.
This date serves to reinforce the Chinese Communist Party’s claim to rule China, due to its participation in the defense against Tokyo.
Still, while history plays a part, this is just as much about the present and future, and Beijing wants its old and new rivals to know that its air force is now one of the largest and most advanced in the world.
This huge display will arrive just as tensions continue to simmer over both Taiwan and the South China Sea- all underscored by Beijing’s resentment of Washington’s current military supremacy.
But do these flamboyant parades actually prove the PLA’s combat readiness?
One military analyst told the South China Morning Post that these rehearsed parades could in fact brush over real gaps in preparedness or training.
Just because China’s military aviation is improving, that does not mean it is yet on par with the U.S. and its allies.
About the Author: Georgia Gilholy
Georgia Gilholy is a journalist based in the United Kingdom who has been published in Newsweek, The Times of Israel, and the Spectator. Gilholy writes about international politics, culture, and education. You can follow her on X: @llggeorgia.
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