How to write a defense paper that policymakers can use

How should defense papers for politicians be written so non-specialists can understand them?

Lead with roughly ten clear bullet points, signpost the argument throughout, and use understandable terms such as cruisers and destroyers instead of unexplained acronyms.

The proposed opening is a half-page overview with about ten bullet points covering the paper's logic and conclusions. Clear signposting then helps a reader unfamiliar with the subject follow the full argument. Technical content remains useful, but terms such as cruisers and destroyers are easier to follow than a dense succession of SSC, LSC, and LCS. The aim is to give specialists something useful while allowing a first-time reader to leave with a clear understanding. Excessive jargon risks losing the audience's attention and support.