Geopolitics Explained

Why Sea Power Still Matters in a World of Satellites and Cyberwar

Most global trade by volume still moves by sea, which means naval power remains tied to the movement of energy, food, raw materials and manufactured goods. Satellites can watch shipping and cyberattacks can disrupt ports, but physical cargo still has to cross oceans. A navy's importance therefore extends beyond fighting other ships. It can escort commerce, protect chokepoints, enforce blockades or signal presence far from home. Modern geopolitics layers new technologies onto an old reality: controlling movement across water still affects economic and military power.