Expanded global capabilities showcased by China as they unveil a colossal nuclear missile boasting a staggering range of 12,427 miles.

In a significant display of military might, China unveiled its latest intercontinental nuclear missile, the DF-5C, during a grand Victory Day parade in Beijing. The event was attended by world leaders, including Russia's Vladimir Putin, North Korea's Kim Jong-un, Belarus' Alexander Lukashenko, and Malaysia's Anwar Ibrahim.

The DF-5C aligns with China's nuclear strategy, which emphasizes deterrence and defense. Professor Yang Chengjun, an expert on missile technology and nuclear disarmament, stated that the DF-5C provides significant strategic value.

Professor Yang outlined six defining features of the missile. These include its new structure for faster launch preparation, multiple launch methods, and the use of a mix of inertial guidance, starlight guidance, and China's Beidou navigation system. This enables the DF-5C to hit targets with accuracy similar to mid- and short-range missiles.

The DF-5C also boasts high-speed flight, multiple warhead capabilities, and advanced guidance for precise global strikes. It can carry multiple independently targetable reentry vehicles (MIRVs), which can hold nuclear or conventional warheads or even decoys. This greatly increases the challenges for defense systems to intercept.

The J-35 stealth fighter and J-15T carrier-based aircraft were also showcased at the parade, marking advances in naval aviation. The J-35 is a key step in China's move from near-sea to far-sea defense. Air formations included the H-6J long-range bomber, equipped with YJ-12 supersonic anti-ship missiles.

The PLA also revealed other nuclear-capable missiles, including the JL-1 and JL-3, representing the land, sea, and air components of China's nuclear triad. The manufacturer of the DF-5C missile system is the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC).

The DF-5C has an estimated range of over 12,427 miles (20,000 kilometers), allowing it to strike anywhere on the globe. New drones with artificial intelligence were displayed, featuring autonomous swarming and reconnaissance-strike capabilities.

President Xi Jinping delivered a speech and inspected troops during the parade, with the DF-5C being showcased alongside other Chinese weapons. China maintains a pledge of never being the first to use nuclear weapons and of not targeting non-nuclear states or nuclear-free zones.

This display of military power underscores China's commitment to strengthening its defense capabilities and its role on the global stage. The unveiling of the DF-5C marks a significant milestone in China's military development, further enhancing its strategic deterrence capabilities.