Cabinet's being warned its window for a decision around replacing our two ageing warships is rapidly closing.  

An NZ Initiative research note says the frigates are set to retire within a decade and the complex geopolitical environment adds another layer of urgency. 

Retired Major General John Howard says we're seeing more volatility both in our region and at home.  

He told Ryan Bridge the country now has the option to think broadly about the maritime capabilities we want and how we defend our national interests.  

Howard says if we’re going to be serious about maintaining a blue-water capability, then we need a minimum of four warships. 

LISTEN ABOVE 

Cabinet's being warned its window for a decision around replacing our two ageing warships is rapidly closing. &nbsp;
An NZ Initiative research note says the frigates are set to retire within a decade and the complex geopolitical environment adds another layer of urgency.&nbsp;
Retired Major General John Howard says we're seeing more volatility both in our region and at home. &nbsp;
He told Ryan Bridge the country now has the option to think broadly about the maritime capabilities we want and how we defend our national interests. &nbsp;
Howard says if we’re going to be serious about maintaining a blue-water capability, then we need a minimum of four warships.&nbsp;
LISTEN ABOVE&nbsp;

A fresh and intelligent start to your day - catch the very latest international and domestic news developments, sport, entertainment and business on Early Edition with Ryan Bridge, on Newstalk ZB.

A fresh and intelligent start to your day - catch the very latest international and domestic news developments, sport, entertainment and business on Early Edition with Ryan Bridge, on Newstalk ZB.

Early Edition with Ryan Bridge

John Howard: Retired Major General and NZ Initiative Senior Fellow on their warning about the state of New Zealand's warships

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/7784f840-c291-422a-924b-ad9000bbad71/clips/fb0fbcc2-1f1f-4bf3-a5de-b487000ab9a9/transcript