In order to improve target location accuracy of the sky-wave over-the-horizon radar, a target localization model was proposed based on the improved dragonfly algorithm to optimize the extreme learning machine for the multi-static sky-wave over-the-horizon radar system. Firstly, in order to avoid dragonfly algorithm falling into local optimum, the Logistic chaotic mapping, reverse learning strategy and mutation process are introduced into the dragonfly algorithm to create an improved dragonfly algorithm. Then, the improved dragonfly algorithm is used to optimize the weight and hidden layer bias of the extreme learning machine. Finally, the optimized extreme learning machine is applied to multi-static sky-wave over-the-horizon radar location. Theoretical research and simulation results show that the method can achieve high locating precision of target, and its location accuracy and reliability are better than those of current sky-wave over-the-horizon radar location methods and target location methods based on back propagation neural network and radial basis function neural network. A new target location method is provided for the multi-static sky-wave over-the-horizon radar system.