China is preparing to reveal what it calls the world’s most powerful laser air defence system during a big military parade in Beijing tomorrow, marking 80 years since the end of World War II.

Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un will attend the event, where lasers are expected to be a highlight in China’s new military display.

During practice runs in Beijing, the laser system was seen mounted on an eight-wheeled truck and hidden under a green cover. Experts say the reveal will show China’s military progress, though its full capabilities remain uncertain.

Reports suggest the weapon is probably the OW5-A10, a truck-mounted 10kW laser meant to take down groups of drones. A Chinese military-linked social media account called it the most powerful laser air defence system in the world.

Rob Peters, a senior researcher at the Heritage Foundation, said U.S. experts will carefully watch for signs of whether the system is truly advanced or mainly a display.

He cautioned, “When China shows new high-tech weapons, we should be careful about assuming they are the best or fully operational.”

The parade will also feature four new anti-ship missiles from China’s “eagle attack” series. Officials confirmed that all the weapons displayed are made in China and already in use.

Military experts note that China often uses these parades to show off strategic priorities. In 2015, it focused on missiles capable of reaching the U.S., and in 2019 drones were the star, including the new GJ-11 attack drone.

Song Zhongping, a Chinese military analyst and former instructor, told AFP that the focus on advanced weapons reflects China’s concerns about the Taiwan Strait and South China Sea.

He said the country needs strong anti-ship and anti-aircraft capabilities to prevent serious threats to its national security.

The world will be watching closely at Tiananmen Square to see if China’s military parade matches the country’s ambitious claims about its latest weapons.