The Defence Minister says today's investment is about giving personnel, the tools to do what's needed

Judith Collins has announced 957-million has been earmarked over four years, for Defence Force activities.

Two-billion dollars has been set aside for new helicopters, with a business case set to go before Cabinet this year.

Collins says the current choppers are ageing and overworked.

She says they do things drones can't, like pick people up out of the sea -- and are also needed for any combat needs that occur.