Technological development branches, doubles back, and reaches dead ends. Hindsight can hide why a choice once looked sensible, especially when a promising idea later fails in practice. A state without an immediate threat can spend time on science, research, and economic growth before it needs military capabilities. A more exposed state may have to prioritize knowledge that offers immediate military value. Resources, strategic circumstances, and time decide which phase of development receives attention.
Chapter · 20:52-23:09
How strategic context sets technology priorities
Technological paths that later look mistaken often reflected the threats, resources, and time available to decision-makers.