A stronger defence force (Nationals)

The Coalition is committed to building a more potent, agile and engaged Australian Defence Force (ADF), ready to respond whenever our interests are threatened or our help is needed. To do this, we will increase Defence funding by $29.9 billion over the next ten years and deliver on our 2013 election commitment to return Defence spending to 2% of GDP within the decade. We are investing in new capability, including: A continuous naval shipbuilding program, commencing with nine Future Frigates and 12 Offshore Patrol Vessels; Twelve new regionally-superior submarines to be built in Adelaide, creating around 2,800 jobs; Enhanced intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, space, electronic warfare and cyber capabilities; and Support for Australian Defence Force personnel – providing them with the advanced training, modern equipment and health care they deserve. The Government is also undertaking comprehensive upgrades of Defence infrastructure across Australia to support our larger future force, including at key bases. This will also see the creation of local jobs