Navy and police teams have recovered the body of missing Linton soldier Michael Ross. Divers found Mr Ross' body on the bed of Lake Moawhanga near Waiouru around 3pm today. Read the rest of this entry »

New Zealand troops in Afghanistan are extending their patrols further into the "badlands" east of Bamiyan to intercept insurgents responsible for the attack that killed two soldiers and injured six more. Ministers yesterday approved the move, as soldiers again came under fire - but this time there were no casualties. Read the rest of this entry »

Treasury has warned the Government there is a risk that cutbacks in the Defence Force will result in fewer personnel, a loss of skills, and reduced capacity and performance. Budget background papers reveal Treasury warned it was "highly probable" a gap would develop between the Government's intentions and the affordability of the Defence Force after 2015/16 if it were to continue to maintain and operate as it does now. Read the rest of this entry »

Eight new $700 million airforce helicopters have a serious flaw that even when fixed will prevent use in snowy conditions. The Royal New Zealand Air Force is the first military force to use the high technology NH-90s, winning criticism from Auditor-General Lyn Provost who says this country should not be buying "first of type" equipment. Read the rest of this entry »

KATE CHAPMANThe first joint exercise with United States troops on New Zealand soil in 26 years is the beginning of "continued opportunities" between the two countries, a top Nato commander says. Defence Minister Dr Jonathan Coleman and US Ambassador to Wellington David Huebner announced yesterday that the Defence Force would host the exercise in the central North Island later this month, involving 35 US Marines and 41 US Army personnel. Read the rest of this entry »

The New Zealand Defence Force has named the soldier who died in Afghanistan as 26-year-old Corporal Douglas Hughes. Chief of Defence Lieutenant General Rhys Jones confirmed Hughes, known as "Dougie", died after being flown to Bagram Air Base hospital about 1.45pm yesterday. It is understood his death is a suspected suicide. Read the rest of this entry »

LATEST: An investigation will be held into the death of a soldier serving in Afghanistan, Defence Minister Jonathan Coleman says. An incident occurred at Forward Patrol Base Romero at approximately 11am (NZ time) today. The soldier died later in hospital, the Defence Force said. Read the rest of this entry »