Although no one would admit it, everyone, including Herbert, knew that a full-scale war with the Liangxia Empire became inevitable the moment the voters sent Ronald to the Grey Palace 10 years ago. The subsequent events merely accelerated or slowed the approach of the war.
However, the developments that followed exceeded everyone's expectations.
When the decision to take steps towards hegemony, that is, to dominate the western hemisphere, was made, everyone, including Ronald, believed there was enough time for the Newland Republic to build a first-rate military force and gain enough comprehensive national power to match the Liangxia Empire before the outbreak of the war.
It was from this moment that the Newland Republic began to focus on building their Navy and vigorously developed their Air Force.
The most representative example was Ronald's announcement after his election that he would increase the number of large battleships to 350 during his term.
