GRETA Steyn writes on July 6 that "the economic premise on which the arms spending spree is based was never that strong anyway". There is room for opinion.

Arguably, we are wise to project a credible defence capability. By the standards of sub-Saharan Africa our economy is large and luscious. We are endowed with natural resources, with resourceful people, and by any measure our coastine is long. There is certainly much to defend.

A visibly strong defence provides worthwhile insurance, ability to maintain a strong peace. Better we accept it as necessary.  

With acknowledgement to John Watson and Business Day.