Unfortunately, over time those supporting activities often have come to be viewed as additional primary missions. As with any large bureaucracy, the services have become protective of their investment of time,effort and money into these activities. The result is duplication of systems and duplication of apparent capabilities. The problem is that we simply can't afford these redundant capabilities. The Cold War is over.
Fiscal realities demand smaller defense budgets.
Those smaller budgets mean a smaller defense force. The problem thus becomes how to deal with the numerous regional and subregional conflicts with smaller forces and less money. To find a solution we have to begin with a blank sheet of paper. What must not go is essential US military capability, but rather redundant capabilities. We must rely upon each other to provide mutual support in any future conflict.