Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 17 February 2026
196. Deputy Tony McCormack asked the Minister for Defence the way the new strategic framework for the transformation of the Defence Forces will improve Defence Forces equipment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12175/26]
View answerI would like to thank the Deputy for his question.
My priority as Minister for Defence is to ensure that the operational capability of the Army, Air Corps and Naval Service is maintained and developed. This is to enable the Defence Forces to carry out the roles assigned by Government. The Strategic Framework 2026 comprises 123 actions that will be completed during this year to underpin the transformation of the Defence Forces.
A range of measures are in train to improve Defence Forces equipment over the next twelve months, including:
• Delivery of the Counter UAS capability.
• Commencement of phased delivery of the Military Radar Programme.
• Progression of the Super Medium Helicopter project.
• Build Phase of H145 Light Utility Helicopters, with phased delivery in 2027 and 2028.
• Naval Service P50 Primary Armament refurbishment and modernisation.
• Naval Service X and S band radar systems completed.
• Mid-life maintenance and upgrade programme of the Army's fleet of Armoured Personnel Carriers.
• Delivery of Individual Modularised Body Armour Systems.
• Naval Service Diving Unit Equipment modernisation.
These improvements will be further enhanced by the considerable infrastructure plans that are also well underway in my Department, across eleven different military installations
