Lease a third ANZAC Class frigate to bring the RNZN frigate Squadronn up to its minimum functioning capability for remaining on station (3:1). To not do so is to effectively write off a green-water, combat capable navy over time
Repeal of the ban on nuclear-powered allied ships

Review the structure and governance of the NZDF, looking at which functions can be carried out by civilian agencies or put under joint military/civilian control
Ensure that New Zealand has sufficient maritime surveillance capabilities, including airplanes, to properly monitor the waters around New Zealand, and to assist South Pacific island states
Phase out the ANZAC frigates as soon as possible and replace with more appropriate equipment

Labour will continue the process of ensuring all three Services have modern and appropriate equipment

Defence force should concentrate on maximising its effectiveness in a relatively narrow range of military and intelligence areas
National will publish a White Paper in its first year in government to take a fresh look at our defence capabilities and requirements

Put in place programmes to address the exodus of Defence Force personnel at all levels and to attend to staffing issues in general
Review entry standard requirements to ensure that no suitable candidates are excluded from joining the Defence Forces
Contribute to global security through the provision of Defence Force elements as and when appropriate, and ensure New Zealand's forces are never pawns being manipulated for political gain
Create a new maritime focused Defence Force along the lines of the British Royal Marines and the US Marine Corps that concentrates our Defence Force elements
Ensure that this Marine Force has fully integrated combat elements including an Air Combat Capability

Reach a multi-party accord on funding for the NZ Defence Force so that it is equipped to meet peacekeeping, peace building, humanitarian and disaster relief operations
We like the concept of having, 'the best small integrated defence force in the world'