A gradual approach on defence spending

Another defence budget zoomed past us this month. Since then, analyses have focused on how defence spending for the coming year departs from the previous one. Some have waved a red flag as defence spending has fallen below 2% of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) for the first time in many years. On the other hand, the defence ministry’s post-budget statement emphasised a 44% increase in operational spending, which it said will close critical gaps in combat capabilities and equip the forces in terms of ammunition, sustenance of weapons and assets, and military reserves.