I am curious what he said was the weapon for a first-rate power. Do you know? Thanks.
Just a guess, but I would say aircraft carrier
Besides knowledge, training and motivation of military personnel and leadership --- aviation and the ability to conduct electronic warfare, including the use of intelligent, integrated info systems.
Since there's a few second rate powers with fleet ballistic missile subs I'd say the first class powers are the ones with the star destroyers and anti-matter weapons.../sarc