[robotresearcher]

So why didn't the old companies do it? They have the same access to technical and financial expertise as anyone, and deep pockets.

[lmm]

"Cost-plus" funding means they didn't have any incentive to reduce costs. The thing that got them money was keeping politicians onside, so it was more important to e.g. provide jobs in relevant states.

[robotresearcher]

I agree totally. I was responding to the parent who was challenging cost-plus as an explanation for Big-Co failing to bring down costs.