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Battleship Quote by David Edgerton

“Thus, a battleship cost around £10m in 1940. Building that battleship today might cost £500m, but to build a battleship representing the same proportion of current GDP would mean spending £2.5bn.” quote by David Edgerton
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““Thus, a battleship cost around £10m in 1940. Building that battleship today might cost £500m, but to build a battleship representing the same proportion of current GDP would mean spending £2.5bn.””

David Edgerton

About This Quote

Source Book: The Shock of the Old: Technology and Global History Since 1900, 2006

Historical costs of military assets rise dramatically, reflecting economic growth and inflation.

In simple terms: Warships become far more expensive over time.

Key Takeaway

Consider economic context in defense budgeting.

Themes

economics military inflation

Mood

analytical informative

Type

historical economic

When to use this quote

  • budget planning
  • policy analysis
  • historical research

Key Concepts

historical economics defense spending GDP proportion

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do nations balance defense needs with fiscal constraints?
  • What alternatives exist to traditional battleships?
A Different Perspective

High costs may limit strategic flexibility.

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