A relentless stream of tanks, ballistic missiles, and goose-stepping soldiers paraded into Beijing's Tiananmen Square on Thursday in a massive display of military strength meant to commemorate the victory over Japan in World War II.
Chinese President Xi Jinping used the occasion to announce that over 300,000 troops will be cut from the People's Liberation Army. In a speech kicking off the parade, Xi said the move is a demonstration that China is devoted to peace.
"No matter how much stronger it may become, China will never seek hegemony or expansion," said the Chinese president.
It is the fourth major reduction in troops since the 1980s for the PLA, which currently has 2.3 million members.