Defence Force

Our Defence Force has a growing problem with attracting and retaining essential staff - at a time they are needed more than ever.

It's important New Zealand works out what it can contribute if it decides to join the military alliance, the defence minister says. Audio

Opposition parties are condemning the government's plan, saying it has "shades of Iraq". Audio

The Labour Party is condemning the coalition government's deployment of Defence Force troops to the Middle East.

New Zealand will send a six-member Defence Force team to help protect shipping in the Red Sea from Houthi attacks.

New Zealand is in a group of allies the US has asked to stump up more money for military satellites.

If he is on it, he will be breaking a commitment made in June. He says the 757 will allow him to bring a media delegation, and he has asked the Defence Force to come up with long-term options.

The United States military is pushing ahead with its plan to flood the Asia-Pacific region with drones - but New Zealand's military is not on board with it.

The coalition government will have to make some tough calls on defence spending this term to help the force address staff shortages and ageing infrastructure.

Australia will spend NZ$598.6m to create a naval nuclear power safety regulator as part of the AUKUS programme, a government economic update shows.

Defence Minister Judith Collins has described the previous Labour government as somewhat anti-American, but is refusing to explain why she holds that view.

Heavy drinking displayed by Defence Force staff deployed in Egypt is an embarrassment to the country, says Alcohol Healthwatch director Andrew Galloway.

A total of 78 sets of medals have been given out in an emotional ceremony, in recognition of members of the legendary 28th Māori Battalion, and presented to their descendants at Waitangi.

Banded dotterel nests in the Waimakariri River have disappeared after Defence Force vehicles were seen doing driver training in the area.