On August 4th, New Zealand is expected to outline its defense plans, focusing on increasing spending and resources to strengthen its forces, which are currently underinvested compared to its defense partners.
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| New Zealand will increase its defense investment and spending in the near future. (Source: Gulf Times) |
The ruling Labour government of New Zealand Prime Minister Chris Hipkins will unveil its first National Security Strategy, a review of the past 10 months to assess necessary security spending.
In July, Prime Minister Hipkins said the strategic report would identify areas where the government needs to focus, while also addressing emerging issues such as misinformation and economic security, as well as supporting the resilience of the Pacific region and strengthening relations in the Indo-Pacific.
"We cannot be passive and need to continue investing," Hipkins emphasized.
Recently, the New Zealand Labour government has invested significantly in replacing P-3 Orion reconnaissance aircraft with P-8 Poseidons, upgrading C-130 Hercules transport aircraft, and enhancing sustainability. However, New Zealand's defense forces remain stretched thin.
New Zealand Defence Minister Andrew Little asserted that, with a defence budget equivalent to only about 1% of its gross domestic product (GDP), Wellington needs to invest heavily to address challenges and meet the growing expectations of its neighbors and partners.
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