The range, aviation, command spaces, and embarked-force capacity of an LHA suit influence missions off Africa or farther into the Indian Ocean. Those capabilities let a navy carry troops and support at distances where land-based aviation and nearby infrastructure are less dependable. This is an inference from capability, not proof of a single colonial or imperial plan. Building ships that exceed the needs of a short strait crossing broadens the regional objectives China can pursue and signals an interest in influence beyond its immediate coast.
Notable Point · 2:52:54-2:53:08
How LHAs can support expeditionary influence
Chinese assault ships offer visible influence and intervention options across the Indian Ocean and around Africa, not only landing capacity near Taiwan.