High-Tech Competition

The large-scale rollout of civilian Steam Paddle Wheel Ships had another enormous advantage: it could greatly increase the installed capacity of marine Steam Engines.

There were dozens of times more civilian vessels than warships. Compared with merely installing Steam Engines on warships, this would do far more to spur rapid improvements in Steam Engines.

"Using civilian industry to sustain the military" had always been the best model for advancing new technology.

Moreover, Paddle Steamers and the propeller-driven ships used by the French Navy followed entirely different technological paths. There was no need to worry about other countries copying civilian ship technology to build warships. It was simply perfect.

While Joseph was busy planning new shipyards, Watt, on the outskirts of Birmingham in the United Kingdom, was also discussing financing with Boulton, the controlling shareholder of his company.

"You have to try to let go of certain fixations." Boulton, with his light blond hair and melancholy eyes, carefully chose his words, afraid of upsetting his genius partner. "Those investors have their eyes set on High-Pressure Steam Engines. Sometimes, we have no choice but to cater to them."

Watt waved his hands rhythmically. "Everyone knows that thing has no merits whatsoever besides its love of exploding!

"The new 27 Horsepower Steam Engine will enter production next month. That is the truly good product."

Boulton sighed. "My friend, you know the French high-pressure steam engines had already reached that power output two years ago. I hear their newest models can produce more than 50 horsepower.

"As for explosions, factories do not care about that. At most, a few workers get blown to pieces, and new workers can be brought in immediately. What they care about is the profit brought by greater power."

Watt lowered his head and muttered stubbornly, "Isn't it just 50