Not to this scale. The change from 250 to 100 rank declaration range has exacerbated it further. That goes for both sides regards using cash wisely and the more dedicated player will know where to look to grab those easier cash bags.
I don't think I declared what a victory looks like to us. Seems like something you've grasped from thin air to make as a point. As a coalition we have out damaged the other coalition, we have the economic supremacy and they still have an infra laden polaris which will further increase the damage difference. We will soon be at the point where its tech strength left to be destroyed. Whether the coalition against us wants to admit it or not if they want peace they will surrender to us. I'm also sure there is plenty in that coalition who are happy to fight for years, but like I have said economic supremacy means if they continue the war their own aid capacity will dwindle and they will get bill locked players which simply gives them less numbers and they become easier to stagger and control.
I agree, the game really should have something that encompasses technology better. There has been plenty of suggestions to see improvements here. Research trees that you invest your tech in, trees that you choose specialise in where you can only pick certain trees would be great. Brings individuality and strategy to the table in regards to tech. Pacifica is always open to work with others on game improvement suggestions.