Germany's richer naval program demands continued Army spending, political rewards for senior generals, and broad acceptance of Tirpitz's claim that Britain is the existential enemy. Merchant construction and civilian engine work would give way to naval demand, moving the German economy toward a war footing without producing bankruptcy. Britain answers from a larger industrial base and an existential naval mindset, so every German increase triggers still greater British construction. Willingness to spend cannot overcome an opponent whose economy, shipbuilding base, and dependence on sea power all support a larger response.
Chapter · 1:00:40-1:04:08
Britain cannot be outspent at sea
Germany can fund a larger navy only by appeasing the Army and shifting its economy toward war, while Britain treats naval superiority as national survival.