China is described in this discussion as a large regional naval power developing the support needed for global operations. Its numerical strength can exceed that of a medium global navy while its logistical reach remains a separate question. Support facilities and replenishment assets must be sufficient to sustain the wider fleet, rather than a few isolated deployments. The explanation links China's earlier concentration on the South and East China Seas with its subsequent investment in distant operations. Anti-piracy work and deployments to Africa provide experience in maintaining forces farther from home. Activity extending from East Africa to South Africa, together with interest in deployments to Europe, is presented as part of that developing capability.
Notable Point · 2:13:44-2:16:47
China's fleet size and the logistics of global reach
A large combat fleet still needs adequate support and deployment experience to sustain operations around the world.