Truncating an image of reality for a nice photograph is a wonderful exercise in acknowledging the scope of our planet. But using it for defense policy conceals as much as it reveals.
This X post image shown above was highlighted on Instapundit in a call for American sea power. Commander Salamander commented on the image, "This should be the opening briefing slide anytime the Joint Staff is being briefed on anything in the Pacific." I had to respond in the Instapundit comments:
Regarding that related image, it conceals as much as it reveals. The Tyranny of Distance across the Pacific is real. I don't underestimate the need for more naval and air power to defeat that distance as the good CDR Salamander advocates.
But the Tyranny of the Shores is just as real beyond the scope of that image. Truly, beyond the edges, here be dragons. The need to control those lairs of dragons--ideally by supporting allies standing on that land--is real: http://www.armyupress.army.mil/Portals/7/military-review/Archives/English/Dunn-Tyranny-of-Shores.pdf
We all understand how photos can be truncated to conceal rather than portray reality, no?
And yes, Merchant Marine service must be encouraged as much as shipbuilding, as the main thrust of that Instapundit post addressed.
NOTE: Oops--set this to publish at 7:06 PM instead of this morning.
NOTE: TDR Winter War of 2022 coverage continues here.
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