Chinese organizers of a huge military parade marking China's victory over Japan in World War II said Friday that the Sept. 3 parade will involve about 12,000 troops and 200 aircraft, adding it will represent "new development" of the Chinese armed forces.
"The number of troops participating in the parade is about 12,000," said Qu Rui, deputy director of the parade steering group, told reporters during a press conference.
"At the same time, more than 500 pieces of 40-odd types of equipment, and nearly 200 aircraft of 20-plus types will be demonstrated in the parade," Qu said.
"All weaponry and equipment displayed are Chinese made main equipment, 84 percent of which are shown for the first time."
Such a display of new military assets will "represent new development, new achievements and new images of the building of the Chinese armed forces."
About 10 countries, including Russia and Kazakhstan, will send their troops to march together with Chinese troops during the military parade, Qu said.
South Korean President Park Geun-hye will be in China from Sept. 2-4 to attend events marking the 70th anniversary of the victory, though it remains undecided on whether she will attend the huge military parade that is expected to highlight the rivalry between China and Japan. (Yonhap)
