Creating an Industrial Empire in 19th Century Parallel World - Chapter 288: Problem With Advance Technology

Thirty minutes later, the aircraft demonstration ended. Poul and Jonathan approached the crowd and to their surprise, they were immediately surrounded by foreign dignitaries and reporters.

“Mr. Axelsen! Mr. Nielsen! How much for the aircraft? Are you selling them?” The French dignitaries asked, trying to find his way through the crowd.

“We want to buy your aircraft, Mr. Nielsen! Mr. Axelsen! The German Empire would be pleased to conduct business with your company!” The German Empire representatives chimed in.

Jonathan and Poul exchanged glances, their excitement mounting at the overwhelming response. They had anticipated interest, but the immediate influx of inquiries and offers took them by surprise. It was clear that the aircraft demonstration had made a profound impact, captivating the attention of nations far beyond their initial expectations.

“Any business offers shall be made through our office only! Thank you. Please let us through,” Poul asserted firmly, trying to navigate through the crowd with Jonathan by his side. Their determined expressions and authoritative tone commanded attention, eventually parting the sea of people, allowing them to make their way toward where the President of the United States was sitting.

But…

“Mr. Nielsen! Please answer this question of ours, will the aircraft that you demonstrated today be available to the market regardless of nation or will you limit it to the United States?”

One of the journalists called out, cutting through the commotion and directing the attention back to Jonathan and Poul. The question hung in the air, capturing the curiosity of everyone present.

Poul turned back and faced the journalist who is ready to jot down his response. He understood the importance of addressing this concern and clarifying their stance on the availability of their aircraft.

“Thank you for the question,” Poul began, his voice clear and authoritative. “While we are indeed making our aircraft available to the global market, we want to emphasize that their distribution will be subject to rigorous scrutiny. We hold the responsibility to ensure that our advanced technology is used responsibly and does not pose any risks to national security or international stability.”

“Well, isn’t that the way of saying, we’d only sell them to the United States but to other countries, it depends on the government’s decision…Am I right?”

Poul maintained his composure as he addressed the journalist’s follow-up question.

“I appreciate your perspective,” Poul replied and continued. “Allow me to elaborate. While it is true that the United States holds a special significance to us as the birthplace of our company and a key market, we are committed to working with responsible governments and organizations around the world. Our aim is to foster collaborations that prioritize safety, innovation, and global progress.”

Jonathan stepped forward. “We firmly believe in the power of international cooperation and the benefits it brings. Our intention is to engage in thorough assessments of each potential buyer, considering factors such as their adherence to international norms, commitment to peace, and compatibility with the values of the United States. It is through this careful evaluation process that we will determine the suitability of distributing our aircraft to different nations.”

The journalist nodded, seemingly satisfied with the response.

“Okay, that’s enough questions for today, please let us through,” Poul asserted.

The crowd began to disperse, allowing Poul and Jonathan to continue their journey toward the President’s location.

Reaching the President’s area, they were met with a warm reception. The President stood up, extending a hand toward Poul and Jonathan.

“Gentlemen, that was an impressive demonstration.”

“Thank you, Mr. President,” Poul and Jonathan responded in unison, shaking the President’s hand with gratitude.

The President gestured for them to take a seat, and as they settled down, he continued, “You have showcased a remarkable achievement today. And my military advisors see to it that we must exploit this technology to its fullest potential for the benefit of our nation’s security and defense capabilities…right Morgan?”

Morgan stepped forward, making an appearance to the industrialist duo. “That’s right, Mr. President.”

“Now, not only we are economically stronger than Europe but technologically superior as well. I see that you were being asked by the foreign dignitaries about you selling them the aircraft. What did you tell them?”

“I told them that it is a possibility,” Poul answered.

“Well, I think giving that technology to European powers might undermine our national security and put us at a disadvantage,” Cleveland responded thoughtfully. “We need to tread carefully and consider the implications of sharing such advanced technology with other nations. I believe we should prioritize our own interests and ensure that our country remains at the forefront of aviation innovation. I don’t think I have to remind you that your company made a deal with the United States for your freedom.”

“You didn’t have to bring that up, Mr. President. I owe the United States everything, but let me offer you another feasible option. You see, Mr. President, if you don’t authorize sales of military aircraft to Europe, it will lead to industrial espionage. There will be a time when the Europeans might reverse engineer my aircraft and when that happens, they’ll start building their own aircraft. We wouldn’t be able to make money out of that. But more importantly, it would jeopardize our technological advantage and potentially create a more fragmented global aviation landscape,” Poul replied, presenting his perspective.

“But if you were to sell it, then how would we be advantageous over them? The deal was you will make us a technology that will make us superior to Europe,” Cleveland replied.

“Mr. President,” Jonathan chimed in. “Those aircraft are not the best we have, we are building far more advanced models that will keep the United States at the lead.”

“Is that true, Mr. Nielsen?” Cleveland asked, turning his attention to Jonathan.

“Yes, Mr. President,” Poul confirmed.

“Mr. President, I can vouch for that,” Morgan interjected. “I have been working for them since they started their company and I must say, they are always working on something new.”

Cleveland turned to his military advisors, exchanging meaningful glances, and seconds later, Cleveland turned to Poul.

“We’ll discuss this further with my military advisors in the White House, see if we can give you room to maneuver,” Cleveland responded.

“Thank you, Mr. President,” Jonathan and Poul intoned as they rose to their feet in unison and offered a handshake.

The President rose from his seat, reciprocating the handshake with a determined grip.