New Zealand set to unveil first National Security Strategy, expected to increase defense budget

New Zealand is expected to outline defense plans on August 4, with a focus on increasing spending and resources to strengthen forces that are underfunded compared to defense partners.

New Zealand will increase investment and defense spending in the coming time. (Source: Gulf Times)

New Zealand Prime Minister Chris Hipkins' ruling Labor government will release its first National Security Strategy, and a 10-month review to examine spending on the country's security.

In July, Prime Minister Hipkins said the strategy report would outline where the government needed to focus, while also addressing emerging issues such as disinformation and economic security, as well as supporting the Pacific region's resilience and strengthening ties in the Indo-Pacific.

“We cannot be passive and need to continue to invest,” Mr. Hipkins stressed.

The New Zealand Labour government has recently invested heavily in replacing its P-3 Orion surveillance aircraft with P-8 Poseidons, upgrading its C-130 Hercules transport aircraft and improving sustainment. However, the New Zealand Defence Force remains stretched thin.

New Zealand Defence Minister Andrew Little said that with a defence budget equivalent to only about 1% of gross domestic product (GDP), Wellington needs to invest heavily to cope with challenges and meet the growing expectations of its neighbours and partners.

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