The Papua New Guinea Defence Minister, Bob Dadae, says the Defence Force needs to be built up to a level where it is affordable, efficient, skilled and properly equipped.
The Post Courier newspaper reports that he has put forward a submission for 62 million US dollars in new spending.
The PNGDF had been downsized to around two thousand personnel by the Sir Mekere Morauta Government.
Mr Dadae wants the numbers increased but says the Government first must improve the existing infrastructure and living conditions of the serving members.
And he says before there is any talk of increasing the numbers, the air and sea wings need to be improved.
