The Tyrant Billionaire

A few days later, Hardy left Hong Kong, returning to Japan.

The developments in Korea were swift. Within two and a half days, Seoul, the southern capital, had already fallen.

This event caused a huge stir in the United States. South Korea was under American protection, and North Korea had attacked despite American troops being stationed there. President Johnson immediately ordered Far East forces to assist in the battle.

Soon after, the United Nations passed a resolution to form a coalition force led by the United States, including troops from 15 countries: the United Kingdom, Turkey, Canada, Thailand, New Zealand, Australia, the Netherlands, France, the Philippines, Greece, Belgium, Colombia, Ethiopia, Luxembourg, and South Africa.

MacArthur was appointed Commander of the Far East Forces.

Hardy wasn't focused on the military aspect; he had no capacity in that arena. His focus was on something else.

Wars depend on logistics.

Now that the war machine had been set in motion, vast supplies would be needed. And as America's forward base, Japan would naturally be the optimal supply center.

The United States Congress also decided to procure supplies from Japan.

Historically, Japanese companies received these orders, allowing Japan's economy to quickly recover from post-war damage. Now, however, these orders would naturally fall under Hardy's control, given his influence over the Japanese economy.
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Today, Lieutenant General Williams, head of the U.S. Army Logistics Agency, Major General Sutherland, Chief of Staff of the Far East Forces, and Jon Hardy, Japan's economic envoy, sat together.

Lieutenant General Williams looked at Sutherland, then at Hardy, and smiled. "President Johnson personally sent me to Japan to organize supplies for the Far East Forces. Apart from weapons, most items will need to be procured here in Japan."

"The duration of the war is uncertain, and this is only the first order. Congress has already approved $2 billion in funding for supplies, including weapons, ammunition, equipment, fuel, and logistics."

"Purchasing from multiple suppliers can be a hassle. It might be better to have one or a few major companies manage the procurement. What do you think, Sutherland?"

Chief of Staff Sutherland chuckled, "I have no objections. As long as I get the supplies I need, I'll follow the Logistics Agency's lead."

Lieutenant General Williams turned to Hardy, "Hardy, I think you're the most suitable person for this job in Japan."

Hardy chuckled, "I'm more than happy to take on this business."

Hardy knew that this initial $2 billion was just the beginning.

The war would drag on intermittently for three years. Future records indicated that the United States spent over $20 billion directly, with Japan's position as the supply base earning it substantial profit, enabling it to recover from its prior devastation.

Japan even gained some political leverage.

In the past, Japanese military factories produced ammunition for the U.S. Army.

But now, Japan's industries were under the control of Hardy and seven major conglomerates. With only light industry in place, Japan couldn't manufacture ammunition, meaning that American companies would supply ammunition from the United States.

This development pleased American arms companies, as they wouldn't lose any profits to Japan.

As for Japan, it was unlikely to profit as much from this war as it did historically; most of the gains would go to Hardy and the seven major conglomerates.

"The supplies for the military will be of the highest quality, so prices may be a bit higher," Hardy said with a smile.

Williams nodded, "Quality is the priority."

Sutherland also nodded in agreement.

"I remember when I was in the army, eating those standard-issue rations. After World War II, it took a long time to get rid of the leftovers. I doubt any of our soldiers would want to go back to eating those rations, so I think it's necessary to provide better food supplies."

"Oh? What do you suggest?" Williams asked.

"Rations should only be a partial solution. Fresh food is essential for soldier morale, even if it's just hot dogs. My company has designed a type of food truck capable of making fresh bread, sandwiches, hot dogs, and hot coffee on site. The military could procure these mobile kitchens."

"That's a great idea. Let's look into it," Williams said.

"War can be dull, and soldiers may spend long periods in bunkers or barracks. They need something to pass the time, and I think they'd appreciate a steady supply of Playboy magazines," Hardy added.

"That could work too."

In war, morale is critical. Soldiers, used to the comforts of Japan's nightlife, would miss the warm surroundings of Japan when faced with cold, harsh conditions. A magazine like Playboy might just keep them going.

Modern warfare is all about logistics.

In ancient times, armies could rely on local resources, feeding off the land and sustaining their campaigns by pillaging from the enemy. In contrast, modern warfare demands massive amounts of ammunition and supplies, measured in tons. In any conflict, resources are quickly exhausted. Even in land wars, the toll on resources is immense, and wars involving advanced technologies like air and naval warfare are even more costly. Thus, modern warfare becomes a battle of national strength and logistical capability.

During World War II, the United States dedicated its entire national power to producing wartime supplies, which led to the shutdown of many non-essential businesses, with some resources diverted for military use. This was the reason why, when Hardy arrived, numerous factories were inactive.

At that time, every business prioritized supporting the war effort.

The economic impact was significant.

But the current situation is different.

This time, it's a limited war in the Far East, primarily a support operation. Unlike the past, when the United States was directly involved in combat, Congress would not agree to mobilize the entire nation to produce war materials. Additionally, disrupting domestic economic development would be unacceptable.

The American public would not support sacrificing their livelihood to support a distant conflict in the Far East that drains resources and affects their lives and business growth. Therefore, mobilizing the entire nation for supplies is out of the question. Entrusting a few major companies with logistical duties is, in fact, a very wise choice.