Larger missiles could help justify larger Soviet ships

A hypothetical procurement sequence begins with the navy asking for a missile no larger than its predecessor. Engineers instead present political leaders with a bigger and better weapon, a proposal with greater prestige. Its added weight and length then force changes to the ship intended to carry it. The navy can use those requirements to justify a larger hull and more funding while competing with the army and air force. The example explains how political incentives could turn an unwanted increase in weapon size into support for naval construction.