The big issue with undeveloped nations is the inability to support a large population and provide them with a high quality of life. A large population by itself doesn't create wealth or national strength, the opposite can occur.
Egypt's geographic characteristics sets a limiter on its population potential. The Nile is the artery that pumps a sliver (but dense) of life through the Sahara desert. Its living space and food production is limited by its water distribution. Although technology and management can improve efficiency of resource usage, so far we cannot escape the need for water in food production and industry. Some of the very efficient methods are capital intensive.
Even with a lower birth rate, Egypt's population is set to boom through the 21st century to a projected 200 million by century's end. Geography and demographics pits Egypt against Ethiopia in the 21st century and beyond with the latter's population projected at 240 million by 2100. Both will be competing for the same vital resource that is becoming more scarce as users and per capita usage increases. Typically entities like full control over its river system(s).
Egypt's military for the foreseeable future would be directed at controlling its river system beyond its borders. It would seek to project power over its region, specifically Sudans and Ethiopia. Using military as a foreign policy tool to affect their internal policies regarding resource distribution. Internally Egypt's efforts would be mainly the expansion and productivity improvements of its living space, predominately its agricultural sector and water related projects to facilitate this sector. A nation as populous as Egypt and in its current geopolitical position cannot securely rely on imports to meet consumption demands, revolutions would be inevitable if it does have such reliance. Deserts would be turned into oasis. Foreign policy tools are a means to meet internal demands.
