t68
Well-Known Member
It certainly would be an interesting exersise to see what 2% could do for NZDF.Why do some people believe that NZ can not afford defence equipment? Politicians say that line because it suits them. The fact is the NZ economy is doing better than most countries, our govt debt is low compared to most comparable countries. We could afford 2% GDP funding relatively easily.*
If our politicians wanted to support the NZDF with increased finances, the country can afford it. The politicians choose not to. This finance argument is just a distraction in my view.*
NZ is not the same country economically as it was in the 80s or 90s.
Ngati, the cost you put up for standing up an air combat capability would be 1 or 2 years predicted increase in Govt revenue. A sustainable plan could be put in place over 10 years to increase funding to afford this and other capabilities. I personally would support this to a level of 2% GDP +/- a little.
Considering the future core element of the NZDF will revolve around a purple JATF, a 2% budget may have to happen if NZ wants to be able to sustain that force long term,but as a JATF won't deploy 24/7 but the NCF is expected to I believe should be the priority should be expending it to 4x Frigates. With 2% sustained over a twenty year time frame I think this would be achievable,
RNZN,
4x Type 26
2x RSS Joint Multi-Mission Ship
1x Galicia LPD
2x Aegir 18A oilers
6x Damen 2400 OPV
RNZAF,
9x P8 Poseidon
4x BAMS MQ-4C Triton
12xA400M
6x C295
2x A330 MRTT
12x NH-90
8x NFH (ASW)
8x AH-64E Longbow
6x CH-47
8x Super King Air (3x MC-12W Liberty ISR variant)
NH-90 & CH-47 should be capabile of performing a Battalion lift
Army
2x light infantry Battalions
1x motorised infantry Battalions
2x Armoured Regiments (NZLAV)
1x Armoured Squadron ( Leopard 2A6 plus support infratsture)
1x field Artillery Regiment (expanded to 3x Battery of M777
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