Podcasts about Defence Forces

In what continues to be a busy offseason for the Philadelphia Union, the club learned its Concacaf Champions Cup fate on Tuesday night: they will face Defence Force FC from Trinidad & Tobago, with a potential Round of 16 matchup against Club América and a possible Quarterfinal meeting with Inter Miami if all clubs advance far enough. Todd and José discuss the matchup and take a look at the Union's 2026 schedule. They also cover San Diego FC triggering the purchase option on David Vasquez's loan, goalkeeper George Marks signing a new deal with the Union, and the latest Transfermarkt value updates for Union players. Finally, they react to the latest comments from South Africa National Team coach Hugo Broos, which earn him a spot as the Blunder of the Week. News: San Diego FC Exercise Permanent Trade Option For David Vazquez: [4:15] Philadelphia Union Sign Goalkeeper George Marks To New Contract: [13:21] Philadelphia Union Draw Defence Force FC in First Round of Concacaf Champions Cup: [19:45] 2026 Philadelphia Union Schedule: [40:54] Transfermarkt Update: [52:46] Blunder of The Week: Hugo Broos disrespects Mbekezeli Mbokazi's agent, disrespects his move to MLS: [1:03:26]   Social Media: Twitter: @FreeKickPod Instagram: @FreeKickPod Facebook: @FreeKickPod YouTube: The Free Kick https://thefreekick.substack.com/   Jose's Social Media: Twitter: @JoserNunez91 https://nunezj.substack.com/ Philadelphia Union among teams punished for tampering at youth level: MLS Weekly - The Athletic Inside the Union's controversial recruitment of top prospect David Vazquez - The Inquirer

In what continues to be a busy offseason for the Philadelphia Union, the club learned its Concacaf Champions Cup fate on Tuesday night: they will face Defence Force FC from Trinidad & Tobago, with a potential Round of 16 matchup against Club América and a possible Quarterfinal meeting with Inter Miami if all clubs advance far enough. Todd and José discuss the matchup and take a look at the Union's 2026 schedule. They also cover San Diego FC triggering the purchase option on David Vasquez's loan, goalkeeper George Marks signing a new deal with the Union, and the latest Transfermarkt value updates for Union players. Finally, they react to the latest comments from South Africa National Team coach Hugo Broos, which earn him a spot as the Blunder of the Week. News: San Diego FC Exercise Permanent Trade Option For David Vazquez: [4:15] Philadelphia Union Sign Goalkeeper George Marks To New Contract: [13:21] Philadelphia Union Draw Defence Force FC in First Round of Concacaf Champions Cup: [19:45] 2026 Philadelphia Union Schedule: [40:54] Transfermarkt Update: [52:46] Blunder of The Week: Hugo Broos disrespects Mbekezeli Mbokazi's agent, disrespects his move to MLS: [1:03:26]   Social Media: Twitter: @FreeKickPod Instagram: @FreeKickPod Facebook: @FreeKickPod YouTube: The Free Kick https://thefreekick.substack.com/   Jose's Social Media: Twitter: @JoserNunez91 https://nunezj.substack.com/ Philadelphia Union among teams punished for tampering at youth level: MLS Weekly - The Athletic Inside the Union's controversial recruitment of top prospect David Vazquez - The Inquirer

Minister for Defence Helen McEntee today unveiled a €1.7 billion defence spending plan that will run until 2030.The Minister described this plan as "absolutely essential". Its aim is to speed up the modernisation of the Defence Forces and improve defence capabilities across land, air, and sea, as well as online from cyber attacks.Joining Ciara Doherty to discuss this is Paul Murphy, People Before Profit TD for Dublin South-West, Catherine Callaghan, Fine Gael TD for Carlow-Kilkenny and member of the Oireachtas Committee on Defence and National Security and Conor Gallagher, Crime and Security Correspondent for The Irish Times.

A new report from the IIEA and Deloitte has said that food supplies could begin to run out within three days in the event of an attack on Dublin Port.Cathal Berry, Former Member of the Defence Forces analyses this further with Pat.

Ibec, the group representing Irish business, has called on the Irish Government to increase investment in defence and security. According to Ibec, ongoing global conflicts require increased efforts to ensure Ireland can protect itself and the businesses that operate here, adding that robust security is the bedrock for business, ensuring security of supply, the ability to transact, and confidence in the rule of law. This call coincides with the publication of Ibec's latest priorities paper for Ireland's upcoming EU Presidency, which focuses on security and defence as essential elements for future-proofing European resilience in the context of global instability. Danny McCoy, Ibec CEO, said: "The world has changed fundamentally in the last five years. Europeans realize that our defence and security infrastructure is very vulnerable to external attack. Defence is not just about militarisation. However, we cannot simply avoid militarisation when the rest of our European Union colleagues- the Union, which is the domain for our economic success and prosperity- are increasing their capabilities. We must be part of a secure Europe." "This does not involve abandoning our neutrality, and we need to ensure, in having realistic conversations about our defence capabilities, that we do not conflate the two. However, neutrality does not mean being defenceless. Being part of the defence of Europe is to make our contribution, and this can be in non-lethal aspects like radar systems and cybersecurity." "Within Ireland, we need to ensure we have the people and capabilities to defend us in our seas and in our air. While the Government has committed to achieving Level 2 of the Commission on Defence Forces' ambition by 2028, a truly comprehensive national defence capability would necessitate aiming for the Level 3 capability within that timeframe rather than beyond it, which requires an investment of approximately twice the current policy commitment. Businesses rely on our ability to protect our undersea cables, our grid connection, energy, and defend against cyber threats, among others. We saw with the visit of President Zelenskyy last week and with Ireland's EU Presidency fast approaching, that our vulnerabilities are going to become more scrutinised internationally. In the future world of investment, the realities of business will require a country to be able to prove that it can defend and secure its assets. So this is of paramount national importance, not just in protecting ourselves but also ensuring future prosperity." See more stories here. More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help promote your business. Why not drop us a line at Info@IrishTechNews.ie now to find out more about how we can help you reach our audience. You can also find and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat.

A New Zealand navy ship's been shadowed by seven Chinese warships in East Asian waters. HMNZS Aotearoa was carrying out surveillance and deterrence activities last month to enforce the UN's sanctions against North Korea. The Defence Force has confirmed the warships kept a safe distance throughout. Otago University international relations professor Robert Patman told Heather du Plessis-Allan it indicates China firmly believes in its sovereignty over the Taiwan Strait. He says a growing consciousness of military might means China's less tolerant of infringements on what it sees as its sovereign claim. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

An emergency meeting of the Oireachtas National Security Committee will be held this week to examine the sighting of drones near the flight path of Ukrainian president Voldomyr Zelenskyy when he visited Dublin last week. We discuss further with Security and Defence Analyst, Declan Power.

A geopolitical expert says it's a good thing a New Zealand navy ship was on its own in waters around East Asia - when it was shadowed by seven Chinese warships. The vessel was patrolling last month as part of international efforts to monitor and restrict North Korea's nuclear and missile activity. The Defence Force says the Chinese ships followed at a safe, professional distance. Geoffrey Miller told Ryan Bridge we'll have to wait and see if there are further repercussions. He says China's usually more offended by joint actions with other Five Eyes countries - so it's probably better our Defence Force was alone. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

An emergency meeting of the Oireachtas National Security Committee will be held this week to examine the sighting of drones near the flight path of Ukrainian president Voldomyr Zelenskyy when he visited Dublin last week. We discuss further with Security and Defence Analyst, Declan Power.

Marcus & his fellow SES emergency volunteers hunt for the "Biggest Defence Overhaul in 50 years" somewhere deep in the Brindabellas (WARNING: parts of this episode contain disturbing elements of earlier reforms who appear to have been victims of foul play). Good news - those blockers stopping delivery of stuff for Australia's military - the Secretary and the Chief of the Defence Force - won't be able to get away with this for much longer. Details are scarce but the hunt is relentless. Then it's time to chew over awkward facts about declining rates of flying by our Air Force and falling numbers of days at sea from our Navy's shrinking fleet. Far from protecting Australia's sea lanes, our Navy seems mainly designed to protect itself. The Flower Class corvettes of WW2 show an alternative way that works.

On this week's Military Life podcast episode, I speak with Racheal Cosgrove-White Veteran and President of DEFGLIS the Defence LGBTI Information Service.   Racheal and I speak about; -Who DEFGLIS is and why such an important organisation exists -Who does DEFGLIS support and represent -How DEFGLIS has changed and evolved over the years -The impact DEFGLIS has had on the lives of LGBTI defence members and their families -Why it is important to have a group like DEFGLIS -The safe and secure space DEFGLIS offers for LGBTI members and their families -Why DEFGLIS are working to stamp out discrimination in the workplace -Some of the ways DEFGLIS have helped change Defence policy & practices -Why it is so important DEFGLIS continue to advocate for policy change & education -The annual events DEFGLIS run to help connect the LGBTI defence community -The impact of not feeling as though you can come to work as your whole self creates -Why feeling misunderstood or unsupported at work leads to a 30% reduction in output, and how that impacts capability -How the LGBTI Defence community can reach out for help and support   If you would like to find out more INFO about DEFGLIS or pass on the links to someone who might be interested, there are a few ways to do so; Website- https://www.defglis.com.au/ Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/DEFGLIS Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/defglis/ Ready to join the ML community? Click through the link to get connected xx     www.militarylife.com.au

The Minister for Defence, Tánaiste Simon Harris, has appointed a new Assistant Chief of Staff to the Irish Defence Forces...and it is a Clare man. Brigadier General Neil Nolan has served for more than 35 years as an infantry officer. He is well known in the Defence Forces and has served in a variety of roles across the military as well as deployments with the United Nations, NATO and the EU. Neil's most recent appointment was as Director of the Army Force Design office with responsibility for planning and designing the future structures and capabilities of the Army. He has also served as Director of Infantry of the Defence Forces. Alan Morrissey spoke with Neil on Thursday's Morning Focus. Photo (c) Irish Defence Forces Facebook

A scathing report into government board appointments has found a lack of transparency and integrity are eroding trust in government; A landmark class action by a group of women who allege systemic sexual abuse, harassment and discrimination within the Australian Defence Force has made its way to the courtroom; New research has found the more violent porn Australian men watch, the more likely they are to perpetuate sexual violence; The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives star Whitney Leavitt is set to make her Broadway debut with a coveted role in Chicago next year. Support independent women's media CREDITS Host/Producer: Ailish Delaney Audio Production: Lu HillBecome a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this week's podcast, I speak with former Marine Specialist Chris Ghalayini. Chris joined the Australian Army in transport before transferring to a specialist role as a Marine Specialist. He served across East Timor, Iraq, and within a Special Operations Unit, living a career built on discipline, purpose, and service. Chris thought he would wear the uniform for life, but everything changed the day a back injury brought his journey to a sudden halt. It wasn't just the end of his military career; it was the start of a new battle he never saw coming. In this podcast, Chris shares his story in full. The highs of service. The deployments that grounded Chris for life. The pride of serving as a Marine Specialist in SOCOMD, one of the most adverse environments in the Defence Force. Chris also talks about the back injury that ended his career due to the pain he was suffering; it sent Chris into a dark place. After 6 doctors said no to operating on his back, the 7 th doctor was willing to operate. This gave Chris a new outlook on life. Unfortunately, after this operation, Chris suffered a stroke in early 2024 during his recovery, he was determined to live for his family. Chris discusses the medical separation and the transition that no soldier is ever truly prepared for. This isn't just a story about hardship. It's about rebuilding, redefining purpose. Finding strength outside the uniform, learning that sometimes the greatest comeback starts the moment life knocks you down. This is Chris's journey before, during, and after Defence. Chris is now an entrepreneur who is the managing director of Poseidon Seas Group, which specialises in the luxury yacht space. Chris now gives veterans and first Responders a way to transition after service and give them purpose again by giving them opportunities to work. Chris is still serving, just in a different uniform and a different way. This is raw, honest and a story of redemption. Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Chris Ghalayini Editor: Kyle Watkins

We're happy to share an episode Early Edition, a new podcast from The Irish Times that brings you four of our top stories in under ten minutes. Find it in your podcast app and hit follow to get updates each morning from Monday to Friday. On today's episode:The Minister for Justice and the Chief of Staff of the Defence Forces must hand over the names and contact details of people who may have blocked, or simply ignored, complaints of abuse within army ranks. Ellen Coyne has the details.Nursing home owners want immigration rules relaxed so they can hire more workers from outside the EU, UK and European Economic Area. Martin Wall says they're seeking changes to the so-called 50/50 rule.Tech workers in Ireland think the general public has an unrealistic idea of who they are and what they really do. Three of them have been speaking to Hugh Linehan in the first of our series, The Professionals, which looks at Ireland through the lens of different categories of worker.And winner of The Traitors Ireland, Vanessa Ogbonno, has been chatting to Tony Clayton-Lea for Me and My Money. She describes herself as a saver, but her most extravagant purchase ever was a bit of retail therapy to take the sting out of losing a football competition. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A former soldier who attacked a taxi driver in a drunken rage says the Defence Force failed to get him desperately needed help after a traumatic stint training Ukrainian civilians for war. Charlotte Cook reports.

The Defence Forces are preparing to deploy a naval ship to monitor a Russian surveillance vessel should it move closer to Irish waters. We discuss further with Vice Admiral and Former Head of the Defence Forces Mark Mellett,

The Defence Forces are preparing to deploy a naval ship to monitor a Russian surveillance vessel should it move closer to Irish waters. We discuss further with Vice Admiral and Former Head of the Defence Forces Mark Mellett,

How is the Australian Defence Force preparing for the challenges of a changing world? Does the appointment of a naval officer as the Chief of the Defence Force signal a shift in focus to the maritime domain? What does a career in the Australian Defence Force mean in the 21st century? In this episode, Admiral David Johnston joins Rory Medcalf to discuss the insights he has gained through his career in the Royal Australian Navy, and how he sees the future of Australia's defence. Admiral David Johnston AC RAN was appointed Chief of the Defence Force on 10 July 2024. He has extensive experience across a range of leadership, maritime and joint operations, training and capability management appointments in Australia and overseas. Professor Rory Medcalf AM is Head of NSC. His professional experience spans more than three decades across diplomacy, intelligence analysis, think tanks, journalism and academia. TRANSCRIPT Show notes NSC academic programs – find out more CDF Speaking at the ASPI 2025 Defence Conference: National preparedness and national support for defence CDF Podcast on Australia's defence strategy in the indo-pacific We'd love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to NatSecPod@anu.edu.au. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don't miss out on future episodes. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A soldier has been accused of twice attempting to strangle his former partner, to the point she says she was about to pass out and was seeing stars, The Army corporal has pleaded not guilty to two charges of assaulting the woman, who was also a member of the Defence Force at the time. Rachel Graham has been at the court martial in Burnham Military Camp.

The Government's making moves to reduce the harm caused by New Zealand's methamphetamine problems - amid growing concerns about fentanyl's impact. The Defence Force, Customs, police and intelligence agencies will work together to disrupt the trade before it reaches New Zealand. Former Police Minister Stuart Nash has examined the fentanyl epidemic impacting the US - and he joined the Afternoons team to discuss further. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A rowdy Question Time sees Albanese and Ley go head-to-head, details emerge about our Defence Force's austerity drive as cost-cutting hits service personnel hard. Plus, Labor doubles down on its absurd offshore wind projects.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Episode 85 and I'm joined by Tim. Tim took a bit of an unconventional path through the Defence Force. He went through the Accelerated Training Option, which meant months of back-to-back courses, starting with a stint at Edinburgh Airbase, then on to Kapooka, Simpson Barracks, and Puckapunyal.He served a couple of years before deciding to step away to focus on what really drove him, his passion for fighting and coaching.Tim was a full-time fighter and coach, juggling training, weekends away, and the realities of army life. We dive into how he balanced it all, what he learned from it, and where that journey's taken him since.Huge shoutout to Elite Boxing Club for letting us record there and Last Laugh Apparel for helping us get here. Find us on Instagram and Facebook. @5withadiggerpodcastThis podcast proudly sponsored by Gravel Empire. Cuzkell Contractors. Elite Boxing Club Adelaide. Northlakes Signs.Use "5WITHADIGGER" at checkout for 15% off on Savvy Touch Products.Merch available at www.crewapparelprint.com.auLike. Subscribe. Tell your mates.YOU'RE NEVER ALONE! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A class action has been launched against the Australian Defence Force, with accusations that women serving in its ranks were subjected to sexual violence and harassment.  

Andrew Hastie, the Member for Canning, joins Mark Levy for his regular chat, addressing his media absence, the calls for the removal of Kevin Rudd as Ambassador to the United States, and the state of Australia's Defence Force.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Paul Cunningham , Political Correspondent, discusses the latest on the campaigns to become our next President, and pre-budget demands.

On the Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive Full Show Podcast for Tuesday, 30 September 2025, former Tony Blair adviser John Mcternan speaks to Heather about Donald Trump's peace plan for Gaza - and whether it will lead to peace. The Government is celebrating getting closer to meeting some health targets but postcode lottery is still alive and well. Malcolm Mulholland from Patient Voice Aotearoa revealed what needs to change to make health access better across the country. Should horseriders be allowed to use a shared footpath? Plus, the Huddle debates whether Kainga Ora should have sold Wellington's Dixon St flats for more than $1million - and whether the big Defence Force flyover at the All Blacks game was embarrassing. Get the Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive Full Show Podcast every weekday evening on iHeartRadio, or wherever you get your podcasts. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The New Zealand Army is embracing the race to the latest drone technology. A tri-service team is being sent to the UK for the Military Drone Racing Tournament. It aims to develop the Defence Force's intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance capabilities as drones become a key part of combat systems. Major Richard Adams, the NZ Army's lead on Uncrewed Aerial Systems, told Mike Hosking that if you look at what's happening in Ukraine at the moment, every six months looks completely different to the last, given the way this technology is changing. He says they're looking to adapt as quickly as possible, so they have the most up to date equipment available to their people. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

*Bondi Beach clash. *Defence Force concerns. *Machete ambush.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

*Bondi Beach clash. *Defence Force concerns. *Machete ambush.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

*Bondi Beach clash. *Defence Force concerns. *Machete ambush.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

10 years ago this week, the lifeless body of three-year-old Syrian boy Alan Kurdi was pictured washed up on a Greek beach…The picture taken at the peak of the European migrant crisis received headlines around the world.How have things been 10 years on, and how should we reflect on it?Joining Kieran to discuss is Mark Mellett, Chief of Staff of Ireland's Defence Forces from 2015 until 2021 and John Lannon, CEO of Doras.

For Dear Science this week, our expert, Dr Daniel Thomas all about ‘interactions'  For our weekly catchup with the National Party, Host Sara spoke to MP Carl Bates about the government's plans to fix up the supermarket duopoly, changes to the Alcohol Sale and Supply act, and Judith Collins legislation for Defence Force workers For Green Desk, Sara spoke to University of Otago's Dr Thomas Mattern about the Tawaki Project on New Zealand's penguin populations Faith spoke to psychological medicine researcher Dr. Aida Dehkhoda about assisted dying, and how doctors, patients, and their families can be better supported

In the past week, we've seen several noteworthy legislative moves across sectors.  First, the government is seeking to address New Zealand's supermarket duopoly as the cost of groceries for kiwi remains high across the motu.  Economic Minister Nicola Willis announced numerous legislative changes that she hopes will improve supermarket competition in New Zealand. Associate Justice Minister Nicole McKee has also shared some proposed changes to the Alcohol Sale and Supply Act, including limiting barriers to the approval of liquor licenses and making it easier to provide alcohol in special circumstances. Finally, Defence Minister Judith Collins has approved changes that make it easier for the Defence Force to cover the operations of striking workers. 

Police have a balance to manage as they continue the hunt for Marokopa fugitive father Tom Phillips and his three children. Police have released CCTV footage of a retail burglary in the King Country town of Piopio on Wednesday involving two people they believe to be the Marokopa father and one of his children. Lawyer Matthew Hague, who has served in the Police and Defence Force, says Police need to balance bringing this to a conclusion - with the risk of Phillips having weapons. But he told Heather du Plessis-Allan that this doesn't mean Police will be passive. Hague says they'll be working with the community, and using a variety of resources - but they'll be trying to avoid a direction confrontation. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The UN security council has voted to terminate the UNIFIL peacekeeping forces in southern Lebanon. The operation in which Irish peacekeepers have been involved with for decades, will end in 2027. All to discuss with Cathal Berry, Former TD and Former Member of the Defence Forces.

The end of the UN peacekeeping mission in Lebanon will bring an end to nearly 50 years of Irish Defence Force involvement. We're joined by Independent Senator Tom Clonan, who also wore a blue helmet when serving with the Defence Forces in Lebanon.

Rossa Mulcahy, Chief of Staff, Lieutenant General of the Defence Forces was appointed his role on 1st june. taking this position, Lieutenant Mulcahy faces multiple issues. Firstly, Irish peacekeepers must wait to find out the future of the Lebanon peace mission as a un vote will take place later this week. Also, the Defence forces face recruitment and retention issues as personnel numbers continue to fall. Rossa Mulcahy, Chief of Staff, Lieutenant General discuss all with Pat this morning on the show.

Mark Mellett, former Chief of Staff of the Defence Forces, discusses the UNIFIL mission in South Lebanon, as the UN Security Council considers renewing its mandate amid opposition from Israel and the US. Thomas Byrne, Minister of State, Department of Defence, on the possibility of the peacekeeping mission in South Lebanon being ended.

For our weekly catchup w/ the Green Party Oto spoke with MP Ricardo Menendez-March about the government's plan to purchase $2.7 billion worth of US-made aircraft to replace the Defence Force's 757s, The high court case against the disestablishment of Te Aka Whai Ora - the Māori Health Authority and The Green party's petition to restore funding to polytechnics. And he spoke with Valerie Morse from Peace Action Wellington for a follow up conversation about the government's plan to purchase almost $3 billion in military aircraft. Max spoke to ChildFund CEO Josie Pagani, to talk about the recent declaration of a famine in Gaza. And he spoke to Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa co-chair John Minto, to talk about the potential vote to suspend Israel from the United Nations, led by Turkey

Last week, Defence Minister Judith Collins and Foreign Minister Winston Peters revealed plans to purchase almost $3 billion worth of US aircraft to replace the Defence Force's ageing 757s. The five MH-60R Seahawk helicopters involved in the purchase, manufactured by Lockheed Martin, would be procured directly through the United States' Foreign Military Sales programme. This week, a legal challenge against the disestablishment of Te Aka Whai Ora, the Māori Health Authority, will be heard in the High Court in Wellington. The case will be argued on the grounds that the government breached the Treaty of Waitangi and the New Zealand Bill of Rights Act when making the decision to disestablish the Māori Health Authority. And the Green party recently launched a petition calling on the government to restore adequate funding to Polytechnics and to reverse cuts to vocational education and training. For our weekly catchup with the Green Party, Oto spoke with MP Ricardo Menendez-March to get the party's take on all of these issues.

The long-awaited refresh of the Defence Force's ageing aircraft has arrived. The government is buying five new 'Seahawk' maritime helicopters to replace its eight 'Seasprites'. It will also buy two new airbuses to replace the 32-year-old 757s that have broken down around the world in recent years, sometimes stranding the Prime Minister.

A $2.7 billion defence spend could help to boost recruitment to the forces. The Government's investing in new aircrafts, including two new Airbus A321 planes, in a lease-to-buy plan. Five Seahawk helicopters are also being bought. Air Force Chief Darryn Webb told Mike Hosking this will be appealing to potential new recruits. He says morale lifts when they have new equipment, and they're always able to get the most out them. Webb says the investment will benefit the forces well into the future – saying we always get more out of our assets compared to most countries, and predicts the aircraft will have around a 30-year service life. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As the world watched Trump and Zelenskyy's meeting yesterday, the topic of security guarantees for Ukraine emerged. But, what exactly was said, and what role will our Defence Forces have after the war?Joining Kieran to discuss is Shona Murray, European Correspondent for Euro News and Tom Clonan, Independent Senator and Security Analyst.Image: Reuters

Two Clare women will represent Ireland at one of the world's biggest military rugby tournaments next week. Former Ennis Fire Brigade member and current Clare County Council employee, Lieutenant Norah Murphy from Kilkishen, and Gunner Patricia Coote from Inagh have both been selected for the Irish Defence Forces women's team competing in the International Defence Rugby Competition in the UK. The tournament will bring together elite military teams from across the globe, with fixtures at venues including the Royal Military Academy in Sandhurst and the championship final at Kingsholm Stadium in Gloucester. Ireland took on Zambia on August 17th, and will take on the UK on August 21st, and Tonga on August 25th. To tell us more about the competition and their selection, Alan morrissey was joined by Norah Murphy, Irish Defence Forces women's team and Patricia Coote, Irish Defence Forces women's team. PHOTO CREDIT: defence_forces_rugby via Instagram

Today marks eighty years since VJ Day - Victory over Japan Day - when Japan surrendered and World War Two ended. Post-war, twelve thousand New Zealand troops went to Japan to 'de-militarise' the country. To commemorate the anniversary, Nga Taonga Sound and Vision is sharing some 200 historical audio recordings of New Zealanders who served in Japan as part of "J-Force". Sound Historian Sarah Johnston has been working with these recordings and shares some of them with Emile.

A soldier with links to far right groups and who is accused of spying will face a court martial hearing next week - a first-of-its-kind prosecution that's for now shrouded in secrecy. The Linton-based soldier's name is suppressed and so is the foreign country at the centre of the espionage case. RNZ is opposing these orders and a suppression hearing is set to take place on Monday morning, before the court martial begins. Courts martial are in many ways similar to jury trials in civilian courts. Jimmy Ellingham reports.

*Defence Force dramas. *Divorce rates fall. *Landlords v Tenants.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

*Life saving app. *Defence Force job cuts. *Worrying signs for AUKUS deal.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.