New Zealand - Armed forces

In 2002 the active armed forces numbered 8,710 including 1,280 women. Reservists were estimated at 5,870. The army had a full-time regular force of 4,530; the navy had 1,980; and the air force numbered 2,200. Army forces included two infantry battalions, one artillery regiment, one engineer regiment, and two special forces squadrons. The navy had three frigates and four patrol and coastal combatants. The air force was equipped with six combat aircraft and no armed helicopters. New Zealand forces participate in peacekeeping and other UN missions in 11 countries. Defense expenditures were estimated at 515.6 million in 2002, or 1.2% of GDP.