Beijing has been showcasing its growing arsenal with a massive military parade led by Xi Jinping, displaying hypersonic missiles, stealth jets, and underwater drones. With Vladimir Putin and more than 20 world leaders in attendance, the event highlights China’s ambition to rival U.S. military power by mid-century.

But behind the polished display lies unease. Over the past two years, more than two dozen senior officers and defence industry executives have vanished from public life in what is widely seen as Xi’s most sweeping military purge yet. The move reflects concerns about corruption, loyalty, and the readiness of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA). Experts warn that endemic graft threatens China’s ability to carry out a potential invasion of Taiwan, something Xi has ordered the PLA to be prepared for by 2027.

Since taking power in 2012, Xi has relentlessly reshaped the military. He invoked Mao’s principle that “the party commands the gun,” dismantled patronage networks, and emphasized absolute loyalty to his leadership. Under his watch, China has built the world’s largest navy, quadrupled its nuclear stockpile, and made significant advances in missile and aircraft technology. Once reliant on outdated Russian designs, Beijing now develops cutting-edge weapons of its own.

Xi frames these reforms as essential to achieving his “China Dream” - a vision of national rejuvenation that includes reclaiming Taiwan and standing shoulder to shoulder with the United States as a global power. For Xi, military strength underpins not only China’s external ambitions but also the Communist Party’s internal legitimacy amid slowing economic growth.

The purge underscores both his consolidation of power and his determination to ensure the PLA is loyal, disciplined, and capable of “fighting and winning wars.” Analysts say this is not a sign of weakness but of Xi’s confidence, as he enters the next phase of military modernization.

For the U.S. and its allies, the challenge is clear: China is rapidly closing the gap, and its reforms make the PLA a formidable adversary. The parade may be a display of might, but the ongoing anti-corruption drive reveals a deeper truth - Xi’s iron grip on the military is central to his quest for dominance at home and abroad.

Prayer pointers

1. Pray: for truth and justice to prevail in China’s military ranks. “Whoever walks in integrity walks securely, but whoever takes crooked paths will be found out.” Proverbs 10:9
2. Pray: ask the Lord to restrain conflict and turn ambitions away from destruction. “He makes wars cease to the ends of the earth. He breaks the bow and shatters the spear; he burns the shields with fire.” Psalm 46:9
3. Pray: for ordinary citizens to find security, stability, and ultimately, the knowledge of Christ. “Also, seek the peace and prosperity of the city to which I have carried you into exile. Pray to the Lord for it, because if it prospers, you too will prosper.” (Jeremiah 29:7)

Prayer for China’s military and leaders

Lord, we ask that You expose corruption, restrain aggression, and guide China’s leaders toward peace instead of pride and conflict. Amen.

More: https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/2025/09/02/china-xi-jinping-military-purge/