Models of F-35 and F-22 attacked in the Taklamakan Desert

The People’s Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) is improving its skills by learning to attack US F-35 and F-22 fighter jets stationed at a simulated airfield. Recent satellite images have shown that China has built a dummy “Enemy” Air force base in the Taklamakan Desert, specifically in Xinjiang, with replicas of fighter jets. This development was highlighted by Clash Report in a post on X (formerly known as Twitter).

“Chinese Air Force pilots practice air strikes on American F-35 and F-22 models. Qakilik, Taklamakan Desert, Xinjiang”, Read the article.

Images taken with Google Earth on May 29 this year clearly show areas where the replicas were attacked and destroyed. In some photos, it is clear that the Chinese Air Force’s training attacks have caused significant damage to these models, while others show partial destruction. About 30 replicas were built in this desert area, indicating a targeted effort for the PLAAF’s training exercises.

On the water

A photo recently shared online shows a Chinese replica of a US Arleigh Burke-class destroyer. The PLA Navy uses this model as “Target ship” to train personnel in ship target acquisition exercises.

The training methods of Chinese sailors are similar to those of the Japanese Asahi-class destroyers. The use of a US warship model for exercises shows that Beijing probably views the US as its main adversary.

The Chinese People’s Liberation Army has a long history of using realistic models for training. Beijing has even built lifelike replicas of its J-31 fighter jets for use on aircraft carriers. Recent footage shows these models on the decks of the new Chinese carriers, providing important spatial insights and valuable training opportunities.

An aircraft carrier in the desert

China has taken a groundbreaking approach to education, building a life-size replica of an American aircraft carrier in the middle of the desert. But that’s just the beginning. Satellite images have also revealed two realistic models of Arleigh Burke-class destroyers in the desert sand. These revelations came to light before the war in Ukraine, and satellite company Maxar made them available to the public in November 2021.

But China’s use of such models is not limited to this goal. This tactic is also used to deceive enemy forces, divert their resources to false targets and demonstrate the strategic advantages of optical deception in modern warfare.

Patriot SAM in China?

Recently, a fascinating sight appeared on China’s streets: a model of a US Patriot anti-aircraft missile system mounted on a truck. This unexpected sight caused a stir, sparking excitement and speculation. Some theories suggested that Russia had seized the system in Ukraine and passed it on to China for study.

But these theories were quickly debunked. Experts clarified that what we saw was a People’s Liberation Army (PLA) training device that was “VISMOD” (visual modification). According to Intel analyst Ryan McBeth, the tire treads and taillights in the image did not match those of real US Patriot systems, raising doubts about the authenticity of the photo.

Taiwan is watching

Taiwanese officials have observed a significant increase in Chinese military activity around the island since Lai Ching-te came to power, with pressure growing as he nears his inauguration. During President Biden’s meeting with Xi Jinping in San Francisco last November, both leaders reportedly reached agreements that suggested a more dovish US stance toward Taiwan.

However, following Lai Ching-te’s election victory in Taiwan, tensions between the two countries have increased. Taiwanese analysts suspect that Beijing is using such maneuvers to put pressure on the new government in Taipei.

Recently, the presence of Chinese warships near the island has increased significantly, and PLA aircraft have been making targeted approaches to Taiwan. The PLA frequently participates in various exercises in the region, including amphibious exercises with mine-clearing units, night operations, and aerial refueling exercises.

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