Honoring Heroic Deeds — How The Victory Parade Unfolded in Astana

President Qasym-Jomart Toqayev and General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam, To Lam, observed the event from the official tribune, Orda.kz reports.

More than 4,000 servicemembers took part in the parade. Spectators witnessed over 200 pieces of military equipment, weaponry, and aircraft flyovers.

The parade was commanded by Major General Mereke Kuchekbayev, Commander of the Ground Forces of the Armed Forces of Kazakhstan.

Supreme Commander-in-Chief Qasym-Jomart Toqayev delivered a speech at the military parade dedicated to the 80th anniversary of Victory in the Second World War.

The President congratulated citizens on the anniversary, highlighting the importance of the holiday for the entire nation.

Congratulations on the 80th anniversary of the Great Victory! This holiday has become a symbol of the high fighting spirit of our soldiers. We honor the feats of our ancestors who heroically defended our homeland and cherish the shinning memory of those who fell in battle.

He emphasized that the war was an immense ordeal for all humanity, including Kazakhstan, and stressed the value of peace.

Toqayev especially acknowledged the contribution of Kazakhstan's citizens to the defeat of fascism. Over 1.2 million people from the republic were drafted, half of whom gave their lives for freedom and future generations.

He also underscored the importance of the home front. During the war, Kazakhstan sent more than 1,500 train cars of clothing and food to the front and swiftly established military production facilities.

To honor the Great Victory means, above all, to solemnly preserve the memory of our heroes. The younger generation must know about their combat and labor feats, the President said. 

Qasym-Jomart Toqayev mentioned the upcoming “Batyrlarga Tagzym” (“Tribute to The Heroes”) march, part of the national “Immortal Regiment” initiative. Descendants of WWII veterans will walk the streets carrying their portraits, the President stated.

We approached the 80th Victory anniversary with special attention. A decision has been made to name about 500 streets across the country after Kazakh soldiers. The ‘Batyrlarga Tagzym’ march dedicated to Kazakh front-line soldiers will take place in our country. Today, when the bacillus of aggression and hatred has infiltrated global politics, it is critically important to communicate the full truth about the war to all citizens of our state. Without truth, it is impossible to understand the value of peace. Distorting the historical truth about the war and the significance of the Great Victory is unacceptable.

Toqayev also emphasized that in an era of instability, protecting Kazakhstan’s national interests remains a top priority.

Our foreign policy is aimed at ensuring this goal. Kazakhs are a peaceful, yet courageous and resolute people. Strengthening the country’s defense capability is our top priority. We have taken a firm course toward modernizing the Armed Forces and enhancing the army’s potential.

The President concluded his speech by stating that defending the homeland is a profound responsibility and a sacred duty for every citizen.

Following the President's speech, the parade commenced.

Over 4,000 servicemembers marched across the square during the military parade in Astana, which featured more than 200 units of weaponry and equipment, including 66 aircraft and helicopters.

For the first time, the mechanized column included Buk and Tor air defense missile systems, wheeled combat vehicles Barys, Alan, Aybar, Taimas, Terrex, and special vehicles equipped with robots for mine clearance.

The parade also showcased combat vehicles, robotic boats, and unmanned aerial vehicles expected to be produced by Kazakhstan’s domestic defense industry.

Aircraft flying overhead included the A-400 military transport aircraft, the L-410 passenger plane, and the Be-300 patrol aircraft.

This year marks the first time in eight years that a military parade has been held in honor of Victory Day.

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