automation of the construction process pretty well allows any rich nation to close the gap fast.
Maybe, but 'can' doesn't imply 'will'. I don't expect to see anything but a steady decline of manufacture in North America.
Having all the infrastructure in place, with highly experienced operators is more than a small advantage.
@Fluf as well..
There will probably be no more 'closing the gap'.
Industrial output capacity, and access to raw resources(killbot construction rate) will determine tomorrows superpowers
I disagree: 10 really smart killbots are going to be better than 1000 dumber ones, just as 10 killbots will be worth 1000 men. Once the technology starts building on itself there will be no catching up, no second chances, just one winner whose initial advantage will outpace all others. I think we're entering a whole new paradigm.
i disagree that north america will not be on the list. while china and other countries will have a significant early advantage, automation of the construction process pretty well allows any rich nation to close the gap fast. australia and other commonwealth countries with access to important resources will be key to maintaining the anglo-american juggernaut so it won't be so US-centric but it'll still be plenty powerful.