by CHRISTOPHER BODEEN | AP | August 22, 2015
BEIJING (AP) — China is ramping up publicity for its upcoming massive military parade commemorating the end of World War II, but officials still aren’t saying what other countries are taking part.
Propaganda officials escorted foreign journalists Saturday on a tour of a military base outside Beijing, where troops are practicing for the Sept. 3 spectacle that will feature 12,000 soldiers and 500 pieces of China’s latest military gear.
Almost 200 aircraft of about 20 different types will also the part.
Reporters observed hundreds of troops in dress uniform and full battle attire engaging in eight hours of daily marching practice along a tarmac strip similar to the avenue they will march down in the heart of Beijing.
With officers watching closely, they balanced on one foot before stepping forward on command, then swiveled 90 degrees to march back the way they’d come.
China says more than 10 countries from Asia, Europe, Africa, the Americas and Oceana will send contingents to join in, but has so far only identified Russia and Kazakhstan as among them.