New Zealand eyes defense spending boost to 2% of GDP

$6.6bn military buildup plan follows Chinese exercises in Tasman Sea

20250407N New Zealand navy

New Zealand's new defense plan calls for NZ$12 billion in spending over four years, with a portion going toward extending the life of aging frigates. © Reuters

RURIKA IMAHASHI

SYDNEY -- New Zealand released Monday a defense plan under which spending would rise to 2% of gross domestic product from the current 1% within eight years, aiming to strengthen deterrence with an eye toward China.

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