BEIJING — China has constructed a full-scale replica of a U.S. Navy Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer at a remote desert test range, according to recently published satellite imagery and assessments by defense analysts, in what experts say appears to be part of Beijing's continuing effort to improve anti-ship missile training and targeting capabilities.
The mock warship, located at the Ruoqiang Test Range in China's northwestern Xinjiang region, closely resembles the dimensions and layout of the U.S. destroyer class, including its bridge, helicopter flight deck and other prominent external features, according to imagery reviewed by independent analysts and media organizations. The structure is reportedly mounted on a rail system, allowing it to be repositioned during testing exercises.
Open-source intelligence researchers who examined the satellite images said construction has expanded steadily since late 2025, with the vessel now appearing substantially complete. Analysts said the replica is likely intended to support testing of anti-ship ballistic and cruise missiles, as well as training for target acquisition and precision strikes against surface combatants.
China's Ministry of National Defense has not publicly commented on the reported purpose of the installation. Previous Chinese military exercises and weapons development programs have emphasized improving capabilities to counter large naval forces operating in waters near China's coast, particularly in scenarios involving the western Pacific and the Taiwan Strait.
The Arleigh Burke class forms the backbone of the U.S. Navy's guided-missile destroyer fleet and performs missions including air defense, ballistic missile defense, anti-submarine warfare and carrier strike group escort. The vessels would likely play a prominent role in any major U.S. naval deployment in the Indo-Pacific during a regional crisis.
Defense specialists cautioned that while satellite imagery provides strong evidence of the mock-up's existence, the precise nature of activities conducted at the site cannot be independently verified without official confirmation. They noted, however, that China has previously constructed mock-ups of U.S. military assets, including aircraft carriers and other naval vessels, at desert testing facilities for weapons evaluation and training.
The discovery comes as military competition between China and the United States continues to intensify across the Indo-Pacific, with both countries expanding exercises, force deployments and defense modernization programs. Washington has repeatedly cited maintaining freedom of navigation and supporting regional allies, while Beijing says its military development is defensive in nature and intended to safeguard national sovereignty and security.
No official announcement has been made by either government regarding any immediate operational response to the reported construction.
