I think China's leaders did highly estimate the possibility of war against the US since long time ago.
Otherwise we cannot explain why China built the 2nd batch of 052C right before building the much improved version 052D. Actually the last two 052C were even commissioned later then the 1st 052D. I think the only reason was that China's leaders did not even want to wait for a little longer, because they felt the danger and it's important to have a few destroyers in service earlier even if they are less powerful.
However, whether there will be a war is not determined by China. It's Uncle Sam's call, but I am afraid the best chance for him is forever gone.