Frigates must be able to defend themselves
The Defence Minister must stand by his assurance that the Navy frigate deploying to the Middle East next year will be able to defend itself, says National's Defence spokesman, Dr Wayne Mapp.
A report from the Australian Strategic Policy Institute said the navy's torpedoes are nearly obsolete and will not be supported beyond next year.
Today Phil Goff assured the House today that 'By the time those torpedoes capability expires the Navy will have replaced those torpedoes'.
“Self defence capabilities are of significant concern, as next year over 170 personnel will deploy on a frigate to the Arabian Gulf.
“We all know that the Gulf is a place of significant tension.
“It would be hoped that our personnel would not have to rely on torpedoes within a few months of the end of their life for self protection."
The Defence Minister must stand by his assurance that the Navy frigate deploying to the Middle East next year will be able to defend itself, says National's Defence spokesman, Dr Wayne Mapp.
A report from the Australian Strategic Policy Institute said the navy's torpedoes are nearly obsolete and will not be supported beyond next year.
Today Phil Goff assured the House today that 'By the time those torpedoes capability expires the Navy will have replaced those torpedoes'.
“Self defence capabilities are of significant concern, as next year over 170 personnel will deploy on a frigate to the Arabian Gulf.
“We all know that the Gulf is a place of significant tension.
“It would be hoped that our personnel would not have to rely on torpedoes within a few months of the end of their life for self protection."
