34. The Government will complete reviews by November 2000 which identify the options for:
    • ensuring the core requirement for well-equipped land forces capable of meeting our most immediate needs;

    • providing effective air transport and military sealift for deployment and support;

    • surveillance of the maritime environment and meeting international obligations for search and rescue.

35. These reviews will be complemented by a broader force structure review identifying options capable of meeting the Government's other defence policy objectives. A re-prioritised long-term capital equipment plan will flow from these reviews.

36. Urgent capital acquisitions which are fully consistent with the Government's defence policy goals and priorities may be considered before these reviews are completed. These include:
    • capital acquisitions associated with modernising the Army;

    • the future of HMNZS Charles Upham;

    • appropriateness of the proposal to replace the Orions' maritime surveillance and patrol capabilities.

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