Defence Long-Term Development Plan (LTDP)
(June 2003 Update)

Projects That Have Benefit But Are Less Critical To Achieving Policy Objectives

The Army does not maintain a high readiness infantry company that can undertake many short-notice tasks. This represents a policy gap and affects deployment times.

The Maritime Patrol Review identified a need for a short-medium range air patrol capability to complement the long range P-3. Options include provision of patrol services by a commercial contractor or by the Air Force. A commercial contract is estimated to cost in the order of $8-10 million annually. The Air Force could potentially provide the service at a lower annual cost by combining this task with existing training requirements or increasing P-3 surveillance hours. The Ministry of Fisheries is undertaking a study of coastal and mid-range air patrol capabilities and this work will consider the options available, including RNZAF aircraft and commercial service providers amongst others, and assess their cost-effectiveness. A final report to departments – including Defence – is due by 31 October 2003.

The Maritime Forces Review identified a requirement for patrolling in the Southern Ocean and in the Ross Sea. At least one of the vessels (the MRV and/or OPVs) should be capable of conducting operations in these waters. Advice will be sought from industry as to the marginal cost of including an ice-strenthened capability in the vessel design. Funding for this capability is included in the $500 million allocated for the naval surface fleet.

The Maritime Forces Review identified a requirement to protect New Zealand's major ports by developing a capacity to detect and dispose of mines and other explosives underwater. The Review concluded that the mine countermeasures role should be retained. The capability of the Navy to detect mine-like objects is becoming increasingly difficult as current equipment reaches the end of its economical life. Upgrading this capability would significantly improve the safety of personnel and ships over the current inadequate, emergency only, systems.

A moving target range enables soldiers and commanders to practice skills necessary to conduct motorised operations. The range would allow the practice of low level manoeuvre (up to platoon level) while engaging static and moving targets.

Army currently has 81mm mortars and the 105mm artillery howitzer. Based on current usage and firing wear and tear, both weapons are expected to require replacement around 2012.

There are a range of infrastructure requirements that will need to be addressed over the next ten years. These projects will upgrade or replace existing facilities and may reduce infrastructure and operating costs.