I disagree. Military contests, like any other, are about the relative strengths of the opponents. Comparing percents of GDP might tell you if you're in runnin

I disagree. Military contests, like any other, are about the relative strengths of the opponents. Comparing percents of GDP might tell you if you're in running with the pack or not, but the outcome of a fight between Lower Plonkova (spending 20% of the resources extracted from 2M dirt farmers and basket weavers on their military) and the United Saviors of Everything (spending 3% of the resources extracted from 400M first-world baristas and code monkeys) isn't in question. The absolute number is absolutely relevant.