Q+A with Jack Tame Can New Zealand defend itself with 'echidna strategy'?
5 snips
Nov 29, 2025 In this engaging discussion, Sam Roggeveen, Programme Director at the Lowy Institute and a defense and foreign policy expert, shares innovative ideas on regional security. He advocates for New Zealand to adopt an 'echidna strategy'—using geographic distance to deter attacks effectively. Sam dives into the implications of China's military modernization and argues for prioritizing missiles and anti-ship capabilities in defense budgets. He emphasizes the need for a cooperative approach between Australia and New Zealand to safeguard their air and maritime spaces against emerging threats.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Military Balance Has Shifted Toward China
- China has massively modernised its military over three decades while US forces in the region stayed largely in the same places.
- Roggeveen argues this shift suggests allies may need to do more for themselves.
Treat Alliances As Interest‑Based
- Always assess whether a US security response aligns with American national interests.
- Roggeveen advises treating alliances with cold realism and planning accordingly.
Skepticism Over AUKUS Submarine Plan
- Roggeveen is a prominent critic of AUKUS and nuclear submarines for Australia.
- He argues the program is strategically misaligned and faces severe practical hurdles.
