Simulated combat can be done between Ernie's mechs, like they did before with the senpais dueling.

Deadlines can be set by the king. It doesn't have to be a contest.

Budget limits can be dictated by the king too.

Publicity can be done by having Ernie's units fight against each other, like a contest between different models. I do have to admit that for the people watching, having 2 different camps fight is more exciting, like a sports match. Still, I find it hard to justify having an entire research lab work for a long time, funding all the people and equipment there, just for this. It's not like they have sponsors or tickets for this event.

Quote Originally Posted by David75 View Post
Ernie's prototypes will probably win, but by a very small margin. That will probably be a lesson for both parties.
Are you kidding? Has anything in this show ever hinted at the contest being something other than a stomping by Ernie? That's what's been happening every episode since this started. The most danger Ernie has ever been in was when his own unit blew up because he wanted it to fly.