The use of models may be connected with the creation of special software for missiles with infrared homing heads , Western experts believe.
In China, the army is rehearsing strikes on models of the most modern American military fighter jets F-22 Raptor and F-35 Lightning 2. This is reported by the publication Defense Post.
As the publication writes, the mock-ups were installed at airfields and are used to practice airstrikes. The footage shows that there are several destroyed “planes”, as well as explosions and traces of fire. Also, mock-ups of F-35 and F-22 fighter jets were discovered in the desert in northwest China.
In addition to the fifth-generation aircraft, other satellite images showed that Beijing has also created mock-ups of the P-8A Poseidon reconnaissance aircraft and U-2.
At the same time, life-size models of a number of US warships were spotted at the test site in the Takla Makan desert . It is about one of the aircraft carriers, as well as two destroyers of the Arleigh Burke class.
According to Western experts, creating mock-ups of enemy assets is one of China's most common strategies in determining how to neutralize them. Also, the use of mockups can be associated with the creation of special software for missiles with an infrared homing head, which can capture a target based on a loaded silhouette.
Earlier it appeared that China built a model of a key area in the capital of Taiwan, where the president's office and other government facilities are located.
“While the use of the mock-ups is still unknown, the move has fueled fears that preparations are underway for a full-scale invasion of the island nation,” — writes the publication.
Created China is a quarter of Taiwan