The stripping of NZ defence capabilities is nothing short of bludging on a national scale. Helen Clarke abolished any meaningful combat capabilities, with promises of an upgraded defence force and a more applicable peacekeeping role. Nothing has been delivered only further erosion and embarrassment!
The New Zealand air force is at best a Police Air Wing. Probably the most expensive Police Air wing in the world considering what a nominal capability it delivers.
All of the present capabilities of the RNZAF could be replaced by civilian resources. Far cheaper too.
Old Orions replaced by Coastwatch style aircraft. Herc's contracted out to civillian freight lift companies . Helen's VIP 757's could be sold and the role given to AirNZ. Scrap the training aircraft and expensive training resources as why do you need military style training for a police air wing? Utility helicopters for civil defence contracted out and scrap the Bell 47's.
Millions could be saved by disbanding the RNZAF.
But not only are the Kiwi's bludgers, they are parochial bludgers at that!
Having a token defence budget gives their national psyche a conscience, when other countries soldiers are in harms way rescuing NZ nationals abroad or protecting NZ economic interests.
Last edited by Gnadenburg; 12th Jan 2005 at 06:16.