James's work belongs in a sea-power account of the Ring of Iron because Edward's castles depended on water access for security, supply, and reinforcements. A weak fortress might fall before that maritime lifeline could have any effect, so walls, siting, and the use of terrain formed part of the same logistical system. The castles served as engines of occupation and deterrence. Fortress architecture, naval logistics, and political control all had to work together.
Notable Point · 12:28-13:39
Sea-supplied castles as occupation deterrence
The central sea-power argument ties James's castle design to water access, reinforcement, and the deterrent machinery of occupation.