Beijing hosted one of the largest military parades in the country's history on September 3. The event, which marked the 80th anniversary of Japan's surrender in World War II, had a clear goal: to showcase a modernized military and send a message of deterrence to the world.

Thousands of soldiers marched in perfectly synchronized formations in Tiananmen Square. Women in uniform, who proudly walked alongside their male colleagues, also attracted significant media attention. Although this seemed like a symbol of equal representation, in reality it was more of a representational element - women make up only about 5 to 7 percent of active duty soldiers in the Chinese army. Their participation in the parade thus has primarily a visual and propaganda effect, intended to support the image of an inclusive armed forces.

The technological highlight of the parade was the first public presentation of China's"nuclear triad." It is capable of launching strategic missiles from land, sea and air. The parade was complemented by hypersonic missiles, laser weapons, underwater drones and futuristic robotic"wolves." New Type 99B tanks, modern rocket launchers and anti-aircraft systems were also demonstrated along the way.

Analysts say the parade was more than just a celebration of a historic victory, it was a carefully crafted show of force as China tries to demonstrate that it is prepared to defend its interests not only in the region but also on the global stage – with technology, discipline and determined men and women in uniform.