What the Budget reveals about NZ’s stance on US-China rivalry (opens original article in a new tab)

New Zealand's Budget highlights increased defense spending and alignment with the US in the context of US-China rivalry, emphasizing interoperability with Australia and the Five Eyes alliance.

• New Zealand's defense spending will exceed 2% of GDP for the first time in a generation.
• The Budget includes a $2.6 billion purchase of Seahawk helicopters from US firm Lockheed Martin.
• Defense plans focus on interoperability with Australia and the Five Eyes partnership, implying alignment with US against China.