Interesting point, but would have to disagree. Defense could continue to be a great revenue enhancer, adding to RT's tax base. As many bases as we have, I bet we could almost make it revenue neutral, meaning we are basically getting free defense. The US could continue to be a great ally, while allowing our way of life to be enhanced by keeping our taxes here, and keeping the socialist fingers of DC out of our business.
The economy of an unencumbered RT would not need the revenue.
The unbridled Left would probably not be a great ally to an independent RT.
You know as well as I do that providing defense--or anything else--would attract the socialist fingers like a magnet.