My point was / is that policies of the US can endure and have done so -- our strategies, OTOH, change frequently. As I believe they must. Perhaps ,certainly will' is more expressive than must; again, that 2,4,6 and 8 year effect on strategizing...
"...that may get into to if somebody wants to be more efficient or more effective in a given area."
I'm sorry, I'm not sure I understand what you mean. To me, whether one calls something a strategy or a policy has little to do with efficiency or effectiveness. Either of the former can produce either -- or neither -- of the latter.
"The cost may be more up front, but ultimately less than it would be if you went in with the idea that you can always increase effectiveness via efficiencies. This is not just about defense spending priorities, but about the closely held values you design your policies and programs to support.
Nor do I see a relationship there... Sorry.