The Russia-Ukrainian war is a bad omen for small nation States like Aotearoa that rely on the rules-based international order for security. Our region has enjoyed a benign strategic environment over the last 30 years but that is changing, and our defence force will have to evolve in the strategic environment. This will require ongoing investment in its people, its infrastructure, and its capabilities that enhance the stewardship of our blue ocean continent in the Pacific. That way, if the Government does need to cash in that blank cheque, our defence force is ready.