Designs are easily copied, physical widgets are not (until we get nano-replicators anyway). Innovations in design and manufacturing tend to dovetail and drive

Designs are easily copied, physical widgets are not (until we get nano-replicators anyway). Innovations in design and manufacturing tend to dovetail and drive each other. Doing both under one roof reaps more of a benefit from that dynamic. There is also a historical argument. The most prosperous, successful countries have had a large industrial base. That doesn't necessarily mean one requires the other, but it does suggest a strong linkage.