Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 16 December 2025
153. Deputy Tom Brabazon asked the Minister for Defence if she will report on the Defence Force's existing capabilities for detecting, assessing and responding to unauthorised drone activity within the State; and whether current resources, equipment and training are adequate given the increasing prevalence of unmanned aerial systems. [71841/25]
View answerThe Government is fully committed to ensuring that the State remains well protected against evolving security challenges, including the misuse of drones. Ireland’s arrangements in this area are grounded in a whole-of-Government approach, led by the competent authorities and supported, where appropriate, by the Defence Forces.
As the Deputy will be aware, primary responsibility for national security rests with An Garda Síochána and the Department of Justice. The Defence Forces, in line with long-standing Government policy, provide specialist support to An Garda Síochána under the Aid to the Civil Power (ATCP) mechanism when specific capabilities are required. This framework allows for a coordinated and proportionate response to drone-related risks, including those posed by malicious actors or disruptive third parties.
I would emphasise that the relevant security agencies continuously assess threats and maintain established arrangements for responding to unauthorised drone activity. These matters are also considered regularly at senior level, including through the National Security Committee.
Strengthening Defence Forces capability is a key priority for this Government. Work is progressing at pace on the Military Radar Programme, which represents the most significant enhancement of our surveillance and airspace awareness capabilities in the history of the State. A dedicated civil-military team is advancing all three elements of the programme: long-range primary radar, ground-based air defence including Counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems (C-UAS), and maritime radar. Elements of this capability will begin phased roll-out from 2026, ahead of the timeline for full programme delivery.
In addition, the Office of Emergency Planning within my Department manages the National Risk Assessment on a three-year cycle. In the most recent assessment, the disruptive use of drones was formally identified for the first time as a national-level risk. The Department of Transport is the designated lead for this risk, and my Department will engage closely with them and with other stakeholders to assist in their preparedness.
