More China-US military exchanges expected: US Air Commander

Colonel Bradley Hammer believes Obama's visit will help maintain the momentum of the warming ties between the two militaries.

Colonel Bradley Hammer said, "One of his first visits is to China, clearly shows the importance of China in all things, economic, political and military."

Since President Obama took office, links between the US and Chinese militaries links are being re-established.

In April, the Chief of Naval Operations, Admiral Gary Roughead, headed the US delegation at China's naval parade. In June, China and the US resumed defense consultations, which had been suspended over US arms sales to Taiwan last year. Two weeks ago, General Xu Caihou, Vice Chairman of the Central Military Commission visited the US. Both sides feel it's important to maintain good relations.

Xu said, "The momentum of China US military exchanges are in general moving in good direction. China's development of advanced weaponry is for the purpose of self-defense, and does not pose a threat to any nation."

However, China's advancement in military capabilities has caused concern in the US. While the US continues to pressure China for more transparency, China hopes the US will halt arms sales to Taiwan, and take more concrete steps to promote trust.

Obama's visit to China gives the two sides new opportunities for further improving their military ties. China's unique influence in the region has given it more weight in Sino-US relations. Military officials are hoping the two sides identify intentions, and the visit achieves concrete results.