Fictional failures mirror real procurement arrogance

Science fiction may require an implausible mistake to begin a story, but historical organizations have supplied plenty of failures through arrogance and poor decisions. Nazi Germany's committee-driven additions to ships and tanks show how specifications can accumulate until systems conflict and practical usefulness declines. Impressive paper performance can then inspire later admiration even when the machine was compromised in service. The Italian Navy supplies a counterpoint, with ships described as well designed despite the Axis mythology that often directs attention elsewhere.