A credible navy requires the peacetime investment behind ships, personnel, weapons, logistics, and worldwide infrastructure; it cannot be improvised in a crisis. Deterrence works by raising the perceived risk of violent action until force no longer appears worthwhile. It can nevertheless fail if an opponent sees no viable non-violent alternative or misunderstands the capability being signalled. The later American-Japanese confrontation illustrates how secrecy, assumptions, and mutual disrespect can defeat deterrence.
Chapter · 1:00:41-1:03:29
Deterrence requires capability and clear signals
The conclusion explains why military capability must be built before a crisis and communicated in a way that deters violence without closing every peaceful alternative.