[Cboldt]

-- What if the steel was purposely made crappy through some nefarious CF deal? --

The damage and intended damage is more long term through reduction in capacity and know-how. Generally making the country dependent, rather than independent. Flow of capital can be used to obtain that net effect.

Steelmaking is a fundamental industry. It takes substantial time to build, and will atrophy if not exercised.

[philman_36]

Generally making the country dependent, rather than independent.

Thus the importance of steel, especially from a military standpoint.