Agree. Not expecting to remove the fp part. Let it be there. But after fp spending, we are doing goods expense only. Asking strong battle and strong negotiation there like a choice.It's just logic:
on the map we fight to conquer territories (or we buy them).
For new technologies we spend on research (there are no negotiations, only expenses).
fp represent the passage of time.
In the modern world, got locked on something means government can asks military guidance. So suggested that. It is just like with the help of military guys, new technology provided to the current people for their daily regular use. It happens very rarely, but it happens.
Now also goods expenses we are doing, but for whom. Just a game mechanics rite. So plotting the story like, every technology is owned by some random people, to satisfy them giving goods. Some decided like instead of satisfying, can challenge them for a battle to get the technology unlocked. Out of sync story and logic, but interesting factor to bring battles to it.