Also the Japanese had a cultural obstacle in taking on that problem. In a war actively engaging the enemy were proper warrior (Meaning “samurai”!) actions, activities with “honor”. Non-direct fighting military occupations such as technical specialties did not have as much “honor”. Because of this less emphasis was placed on getting the right motivated people into these jobs, sufficient funding as well as factoring such things into their planning. Also training had “face & class” issues (just like the Arabs still do!) with correcting mistakes. Thus “training” in such specialties was not as effective as it could have been. Combat training issues for the Japanese answers to tough problems could always be satisfied by showing sufficient “enthusiasm”, a balky radio, radar set, fire fighting gear or physics/chemistry problem doesn’t care about your enthusiasm.
As there are in most cultural things exceptions but as a rule-of-thumb it has validity. The Japanese were a modern (1940s modern) power fighting with a 16th century ethos. There were times (Thankfully!) when reality & ethos clashed, much to our benefit!
Excellent point. And for those who haven’t seen it, here’s a classic:
Why Arabs Lose Wars
https://www.meforum.org/articles/other/why-arabs-lose-wars