The dreadnought race sustained more than naval prestige. Armament firms and shipyards supported employment while directing money into metallurgy, gunnery research, engineering, and other technical development. Governments therefore faced domestic industrial interests that benefited from continued competition even when ministers disliked its cost. Earlier ironclad and first-rate races also made arms competition appear familiar rather than an unprecedented emergency requiring a comprehensive international regime.
Notable Point · 41:39-43:45
Armaments industry made naval restraint an economic question
Gun development and shipbuilding supported employment, research, and national industry, adding domestic economic interests to the diplomatic barriers against a treaty.