Re: [FT] New Israel - Re: National Differences (Long)

Thomas Barclay wrote:
>  
> I can see good reasons for a *mercenary* force. Ever read Not For
> Glory by Joel Rosenberg? This has a lot to say about a similar
> situation. There, the planet is not rich and manpower is the only
> resource. Hence mercenaries are a source of revenue that helps keep
> the planet alive. As I assume it is lucrative, this may also apply to
> a New Israel trying to rebuild Old Israel.

Also, even if the resource/revenue situation isn't as bad as in NOT FOR
GLORY, maintaining a top-of-the-line standing military force is very
expensive, especially if there is no clearly-defined present threat. 
Research (a must if you want to be truly independent) is especially
expensive.

Revenues from selling mercenaries would help off-set some of those
costs.	Regularly fielding mercenary forces would also guarantee a large
reserve of veterans and provide opportunities to field test new tactics
and equipment.