Weeks before a landmark class action was launched against the Australian Defence Force (ADF), it quietly changed its classification of sexual violence, the ABC can reveal.

Under the new definition, all sexual or sexual-related offences are classified as "violence", rather than "misconduct".

The class action, which was officially launched in the Federal Court last Friday, will allege servicewomen experienced widespread and systemic sexual violence, harassment and discrimination within the institution.

Class action launched against ADF

Thousands of women are expected to join the landmark class action.

The ABC has seen an internal letter from Chief of the Defence Force (CDF) Admiral David Johnston, sent in response to the lawsuit.

"Defence respects and fully supports the rights of a

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