The Australian Defence Force is set to embark on the biggest disposal sale of surplus used equipment since the aftermath of World War II.

As the ADF buys new aircraft, ships, vehicles and weapons it's planning to sell off the old kit and make as much money as possible.

Defence Materiel Minister Jason Clare said over the next 10 years' defence would dispose of up to 24 ships, 70 combat aircraft, 110 other aircraft, 120 helicopters, 600 armoured vehicles, 12,000 other vehicles plus assorted communications equipment, weapons and explosive ordnance.

"The Australian Defence Force is about to undertake the biggest disposal of military equipment since World War II," he said in a statement.

"Over the next 15 years the Australian Defence Force will replace or upgrade up to 85 per cent of its equipment."