Instead, it swapped with “Inside Out 2” since sequels can be easier to move through the production process due to existing assets.

The UK also has military and strategic assets in the Middle East and Indian Ocean.

"With US assets concentrating in the Middle East, China sees this as an opportunity to escalate... so it's a sort of cunning way for China to raise the level of attention," he said.

Various air assets including refuelling tankers were also seen on flight trackers moving from Europe, with reports of F-22 and F-35 strike aircraft following.

While such efforts may help reduce California’s reliance on the federal government, they can’t fully replace its assets yet.