China to Unveil New Extra-Large Underwater Drones at September Military Parade

by Emmitt Barry, with reporting from Washington D.C. Bureau Staff

(Worthy News) – China is preparing to unveil powerful new underwater drones during a major military parade in Beijing on September 3, marking the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second Sino-Japanese War.

Until now, much of China’s naval buildup has focused on surface ships, but behind the scenes its navy has been quietly developing a new generation of large unmanned submarines. These “extra-large underwater drones” will be shown in public for the first time, signaling that Beijing wants the world to take notice.

A Hidden Program Comes to Light

According to a report by Naval News, China has been testing several types of these drones for years, making its program the largest of its kind in the world. These massive submarines are designed to operate without crews, carrying out missions that could range from surveillance and intelligence gathering to potentially carrying weapons.

Images from parade rehearsals show two different models. One is marked with the code name AJX002 and is about 60 feet long. The other is even bulkier, with a wider body and a different tail design. Together they represent the most advanced versions yet of a program that analysts say has been under development since at least 2022.

What It Means

China’s decision to put these drones on display is a signal to the world. While its surface fleet is still catching up to the U.S. Navy, China appears to be racing ahead in underwater drone technology.

Experts say these systems could give Beijing new options in any future conflict, especially in sensitive areas like the South China Sea. Even if many details remain secret, the message is clear: China wants the world to know it is investing heavily in undersea warfare.

On September 3, when the drones roll through Tiananmen Square, the world will get its first close look at a new piece of China’s growing military power.

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