New Zealand Defence Force Under Stress

This week the New Zealand Defence Force issued its 2008 Annual Report. This is a report prepared by the Defence Force itself, on how well it has met the objectives set by government. Of course, the objectives are set by government in conjunction with the Defence Force.

There is absolutely no doubt the Defence Force is under stress, partly due to the tempo of operations, partly due to challenges of recruiting and retention, and partly due to badly managed procurement programmes.

Most of these programmes are well over the initial budget, and have been delayed. It means the Defence Force does not have the equipment to do their job.

Read more