China is concerned about preventing foreign powers (especially US) to block Chinese forces in case or military disputes. That would have a disrupting effect on economy and security. In order to address such concern, China seems to focus on pressuring weak states with its economy and military which would pave the road to regional hegemony since it has no its own airbase or navy base.
In order to prevent such threat, China knows that the navy and air force should be in a position to encounter such security threat before the sea lanes which are vital to Chinese interest such as Malacca Strait. Therefore, it makes a sense if it is considered to see its capabilities. However it also emphasizes a strong signal in the region; China is eager to boost not only its influence but also its military capabilities outside its border, if necessary.
