The Government has announced a $2.7 billion defence spending boost to upgrade the aircraft fleet. 

The money will be spent on five Seahawk helicopters and two Airbus aircrafts, to replace the Defence Force's "embarrassing" planes, in Judith Collins' words. 

It's part of National's pledge to boost defence spending by $9 billion over the next four years, but why now? 

LISTEN ABOVE

The Government has announced a $2.7 billion defence spending boost to upgrade the aircraft fleet.&nbsp;
The money will be spent on five Seahawk helicopters and two Airbus aircrafts, to replace the Defence Force's "embarrassing" planes, in Judith Collins' words.&nbsp;
It's part of National's pledge to boost defence spending by $9 billion over the next four years, but why now?&nbsp;
LISTEN ABOVE

The Weekend Collective on Newstalk ZB is an intelligent and fun take on the life you live and what you love. From Barrister to singer to recording artist and concert producer, including performing the national anthem for the All Blacks, you name it, Tim Beveridge has done it. Joined by a range of special expert guests throughout the afternoon, The Weekend Collective will cover off the issues of the week, politics, parenting, finance, wellness and property.

The Weekend Collective on Newstalk ZB is an intelligent and fun take on the life you live and what you love. From Barrister to singer to recording artist and concert producer, including performing the national anthem for the All Blacks, you name it, Tim Beveridge has done it. Joined by a range of special expert guests throughout the afternoon, The Weekend Collective will cover off the issues of the week, politics, parenting, finance, wellness and property.

The Weekend Collective

John Battersby: The balancing act between our economy and our alliances

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/7784f840-c291-422a-924b-ad9000bbad71/clips/65a6f659-335e-4649-9706-b34300395c93/transcript