China to Showcase At Least Five New Air Combat Drone Designs at Upcoming Military Parade

China's People's Liberation Army (PLA) is preparing to unveil a significant array of advanced military capabilities, including multiple new air combat drones, at a grand military parade in Beijing on September 3. The event will commemorate the 80th anniversary of China's victory over Japan in World War II. As reported by Tyler Rogoway on social media, > "Glimpses Of China’s New Air Combat Drones Emerge Ahead Of Massive Military Parade," highlighting the focus on stealthy autonomous systems.

Satellite imagery and recent visuals confirm that at least five distinct "loyal wingman" type drones, also known as Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA), are expected to feature. One notable design bears a strong resemblance to the FH-97, previously showcased at the Zhuhai Airshow in 2021, and shares similarities with the U.S. XQ-58A Valkyrie. Additionally, two new tailless delta-wing drone designs have been identified, appearing significantly larger and potentially indicating higher performance capabilities.

These new uncrewed aircraft are integral to China's strategy for crewed-uncrewed teaming in future air combat. The two-seat J-20S stealth fighter is frequently depicted as a primary platform for controlling these collaborative drones, aiming to enhance operational effectiveness. The GJ-11 Sharp Sword, a stealthy flying-wing drone and a centerpiece of China's Uncrewed Combat Air Vehicle (UCAV) development, is also anticipated to be part of the display.

Beyond the air combat drones, the parade is set to showcase a wide range of "new-type combat capabilities." This includes new missile designs such as the YJ-17 (hypersonic glide), YJ-19 (scramjet propulsion), and YJ-20, alongside potential intercontinental ballistic missiles. Other expected unveilings encompass new vertical takeoff and landing drones, uncrewed underwater and surface vehicles, and advanced armored vehicles equipped with augmented reality systems.

The comprehensive display underscores China's accelerated efforts to modernize its military across all domains. While some systems may still be prototypes, historical precedent suggests that many will transition into operational capabilities, as seen with the GJ-11. This showcase aims to project China's growing power and technological self-sufficiency, particularly in the context of regional security concerns like Taiwan and the South China Sea.