I think a submarine is a very worthwhile weapon. I believe we can defend ourselves with submarines and all our troops back at home. This whole idea that we have to be in 130 countries and 900 bases... is an old-fashioned idea.

In this quote, Ron Paul expresses his belief in the value of submarines as a key component of national defense. He argues that submarines are a highly effective weapon for protecting the country, suggesting that they provide a strong defense while keeping troops stationed back at home. Paul emphasizes a more isolated and self-sufficient approach to defense, advocating for a military strategy that focuses on protecting the nation without being overly involved in foreign affairs.

Paul’s mention of being in 130 countries and maintaining 900 bases refers to the extensive network of U.S. military presence around the world. He critiques this expansive military footprint, suggesting that it is an outdated and unnecessary approach to defense. By proposing that submarines could allow the country to defend itself while keeping forces at home, Paul is calling for a more cost-effective and strategically focused military presence that prioritizes national security over international intervention.

This perspective aligns with Ron Paul's longstanding stance on foreign policy, which advocates for reducing U.S. involvement in global conflicts and military interventions. He believes that maintaining a large military presence abroad may be unnecessary and even counterproductive. Instead, he supports a more defensive, less interventionist military approach that uses resources more efficiently, while still ensuring the country's security.

Ultimately, Paul’s quote reflects his broader philosophy of non-interventionism and a focus on national defense rather than global military engagement. It challenges the conventional thinking about the need for an extensive military presence around the world and suggests that modern military technology, like submarines, can provide a strong defense while avoiding overextension and unnecessary involvement in global conflicts.