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Sky News host Chris Kenny has called out Defence Minister Richard Marles, saying he seems “intent on blaming others” in the face of all his problems.

Mr Kenny said Mr Marles faces “monumental challenges” in procuring military hardware, recruiting and retaining staff, and ensuring Australia is a regional power and a strong ally.

"It's not very reassuring for the public, during these troubled times, when you have a defence minister who's long tried to blame the former Coalition governments, now seeming to turn the heat on the defence leadership.

"But the thing is, Marles owns this leadership, he had the chance when he came into government to change the defence leadership because the Defence Force Chief and his deputy had their terms expiring.

“He clearly went for continuity, it was his choice, he knew the problems, but he extended the terms of the existing leadership.”