This problem could be offset to a large extent if strike aircraft take off with a combination of minimum fuel and maximum weapon load and are air refueled once airborne.
China's procurement of this force multiplier would considerably offset such a limitation. Thus, not only would her strike forces be able to operate almost unencumbered from such bases, but they would also benefit by way of increased Radii Of Action (ROA).
This would permit them to engage targets deep inside Indian territory.
For air defense operations this would improve the already awesome capability of the vast numbers of Su-27's and MiG-31's that the PLAAF would be operating by the year 2000.
§Accordingly, were the PLAAF to use her strike and air defense elements in the role that she foresees she would have remarkable flexibility.
§Long term interdiction of targets in the plains of India bordering the Himalayas could prove very advantageous.