China has constructed a full-scale replica of a U.S. Navy Arleigh Burke-class destroyer to use as a target for missile testing [1].
The project indicates a shift toward more realistic combat simulations. By recreating the exact dimensions and profile of a primary U.S. naval asset, the People’s Liberation Army can refine the accuracy of its anti-ship weapons and rehearse specific engagement scenarios.
Satellite imagery released on June 24, 2026 [1] shows the replica located at a remote missile-testing site in northwestern China. The facility is situated within the Taklamakan Desert in the Xinjiang region [2].
Analysts said the replica allows the Chinese military to test the effectiveness of its missile systems against the specific radar and physical signatures of the Arleigh Burke-class destroyer [1]. This level of detail provides a more accurate assessment of weapon performance than traditional target drones or smaller mock-ups [3].
The use of a life-size target suggests that the military is preparing for potential Pacific-war scenarios [3]. These rehearsals focus on the ability to neutralize U.S. naval vessels in a high-intensity conflict.
The construction of the replica in a desert environment allows for controlled testing away from coastal surveillance. It provides the military with a secure location to iterate on missile guidance and impact data before deploying those systems in maritime environments [2].
“China has constructed a full-scale replica of a U.S. Navy Arleigh Burke-class destroyer”
The creation of a high-fidelity physical replica demonstrates China's commitment to 'asymmetric warfare' capabilities. By optimizing anti-ship missiles against the specific geometry of the Arleigh Burke-class, the People's Liberation Army aims to reduce the margin of error in a potential conflict, signaling a strategic focus on neutralizing U.S. naval dominance in the Pacific.
